Patterns
Seam Allowance
What is Seam Allowance?
What is Seam Allowance?
The seam allowance is the distance between the seam line (stitching line) that joins two or more pieces of fabric together and the cut edge of the fabric.
How much seam allowance is there in a garment?
Simplicity's standard seam allowance is 5/8" and unless otherwise noted, this is the seam allowance included in our patterns. When the seam allowance is other than 5/8", it is noted both on the pattern and in our instructions.
Why is the seam allowance 5/8"?
A 5/8"(1.5cm) seam allowance assures that you will safely “catch” the threads of the pieces that you are joining. This is particularly important when working with fabrics that ravel easily. It is an adequate amount to easily allow you to press open or top stitch seams as needed. It also allows you a minimal amount of “letting out” room should you need to slightly enlarge your garment.
When is the seam allowance not 5/8"?
On very small pieces such as doll clothes, on small detail pieces such as belt carriers and in larger areas where you would need to trim away the excess seam allowance, we typically reduce the seam allowance to 3/8" or 1/4" to make your sewing easier. As stated before, when the seam allowance is other than 5/8", it is stated on the pattern and in the instructions.
For more sewing tips, see Simplicity's Simply the Best Sewing Book.
