How to Stop Organza From Fraying

Scissors with sharp blades help minimize the fraying of woven fabrics such as organza.

Organza is a light and nearly transparent woven fabric, made of either silk or polyester threads. Woven fabrics, like organza, are more susceptible to fraying when cut with standard scissors because the weave unravels and the threads begin to pull out. One possibility to avoid fraying is to use pinking shears, which have sawtoothed blades that cut in zigzag patterns; fraying isn't completely prevented, but the blades minimize damage. However, if you don't want the fabric cut with zigzag edges you'll need to look into another option to prevent the organza from fraying, such as a liquid seam sealant.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid seam sealant
• Scissors
• Iron

Instructions

1. Remove any wrinkles in the organza by lightly ironing it on the coolest setting.

2. Cut the organza into shapes according to your pattern or into ribbons.

3. Lightly apply the liquid seam sealant to all cut edges and allow it to dry for at least four to six hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Sharpen your scissors before cutting the organza.

• Clear nail polish can be used for small areas of organza, such as ribbon ends, that need to be sealed.

• Most liquid seam sealants are available in either a squeeze bottle or as a spray. Select the product that best fits your project. For example, a squeeze bottle of liquid seam sealant would best suit a small organza project.

• Use the liquid seam sealant in a well ventilated area.

• Liquid seam sealant is highly flammable.

Resources

• Simplicity Creative Group: Organza Gift Bags
• BurdaStyle: Satin Organza Crescent Skirt