Techniques

A narrow strip of bias-cut fabric sewn to an edge and turned to the inside, used to finish curved edges with minimal bulk.

Small tool that folds a strip of bias-cut fabric into even single- or double-fold tape as it is pressed, speeding up preparation of binding for edges and facings.

A shaped piece of fabric sewn to an edge such as a neckline, armhole, or hem and turned to the inside to finish the raw edge cleanly.

A folded bias strip encasing a cord, inserted into a seam so a raised, corded edge shows along the seamline as a decorative or defining detail.

Blunt-tipped hand tool used to push out fully stitched corners, such as collar points or pocket flaps, without piercing the fabric or fraying the seam.

A narrow tube of bias-cut fabric turned right side out, used for spaghetti straps, ties, frog closures, and thread loops.

A facing cut as an extension of the garment piece itself and folded back, rather than as a separate attached piece.

A facing cut to mirror the exact curve of the edge it finishes, such as a neckline or armhole facing, rather than a straight strip.

A row of stitching through the facing and seam allowances, close to the seam, that keeps the facing from rolling to the outside of the garment.