| Don't remember seeing this method here so I'll mention it! When I make darts I start at the point, not the seam! I fold the dart, pin baste it in place and before I start to stitch I bring the bobbin thread up so I have enough top and bottom thread to tie a knot after it is stitched. Place the fabric under the presser foot with the point of the dart so the first stitch will be off the fabric and the second stitch on the fabric at the point. Do not back stitch, stitch the dart to the seam edge. At the seam edge you can back stitch or not, doesn't matter in the seam allowance. Tie the knot at the point and you have a perfect dart every time. When I'm making darts that have two ends I break the stitching in the middle and start at both points. Adds a step but you get better points. |
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You're absolutely right to do this Nan - I've seen it taught by sewing tutors in UK. Must start taking it on board myself !! Thanks
10/27/10 6:35 PM
You are so right. Darts do look much better using this method.
10/28/10 10:19 AM
Thanks for the tip!
10/28/10 2:39 PM
To go a step further, it's possible to use this method to eliminate the knot at the tip. This is what to do: Bring up the bobbin thread, then unthread your machine. Using the bobbin thread, thread the needle from back to front, go up and thread the machine. Be sure to wind enough of this bobbin thread onto the spool to complete the dart. Then, you don't need to tie a knot at the end! This is a Margaret Islander tip.
10/28/10 3:20 PM
Yes, deesews I have done this with very sheer fabric to eliminate the knot, works really well too.
10/28/10 3:22 PM
I started doing this a few years ago. Much better results than starting at the top - no more bubbles at the tip! It's a shame that most sewing books only show the one method. This is why we need to experiment to find techniques that work for each of us. Thanks for posting it for those who didn't know.
10/29/10 2:36 PM