Sewing Curves

What you will learn

• Steering slowly
• Using shorter stitches on curves
• Clipping curves

Materials and tools

• Threaded machine
• Two scraps of woven cotton, 6 x 8 in (15 x 20 cm)
• Chalk
• Small scissors
• Pins

Before you start

• Draw a gentle curve on the wrong side of the top scrap, about 1/2 in (12 mm) from the edge. Place the scraps right sides together and pin.

1. Set the stitch length to about 2 mm. Shorter stitches follow a curve more smoothly than long ones.
2. Pin the layers at close intervals, about 1 in (2.5 cm) apart on the curve.
3. Start sewing at the beginning of the curve and secure the start of the seam with a few backstitches.
4. Sew slowly. Use both hands to turn the fabric around the needle a little at a time while the feed dogs move it forward.
5. Watch the guide line on the needle plate or the marked line. Do not stare at the needle. Keep the edge at an even distance.

6. If the curve is tight, stop with the needle down, raise the foot and turn the fabric slightly, then lower the foot and continue.
7. Secure the end and trim the threads.
8. Cut small clips (straight snips) or notches (small V-shaped wedges) into the allowance of the curve, stopping 1/8 in (3 mm) from the stitching. These let the seam lie flat when turned.

Tips for a neat result

• Slow speed is the key to smooth curves.
• Clip an inward curve and notch an outward curve, then press.

Common mistakes and fixes

Check your result

• The curve is smooth, with no flat spots or points.
• The seam allowance is even along the curve.