Mistakes & fixes

A buttonhole that won't let the button through without straining the fabric usually means it was sized to the button's diameter instead of its circumference. Measure the button's girth and test on scrap before cutting.

Side seams that don't align at the waist, hem, or underarm when laid flat usually come from uneven seam allowances or one piece eased more than the other. Pin at key match points and check the allowance.

A neckline that gapes and has lost its shape usually comes from cutting on the bias without stabilizing, or handling the edge too much before finishing. Stay-stitch the neckline immediately after cutting.

A hemline that dips or rises around the garment instead of sitting level usually comes from not letting the garment hang before marking, so bias areas drop further. Let it hang, then mark and true the hem.