If you have great eye-seam allowance coordination, you are very lucky, but for the rest of us, making sure that you stitch the precise 5/8” could be a challenge, particularly when it comes to sewing around the corners. One wrong millimetre and the entire piece would look asymmetrical. Let me show you my tricks and sewing shortcuts for turning perfect corners on collars, belts, pockets and anything you like.
Step 1 – Prepare the pieces for stitching
Pin the two pieces of fabric right sides together, matching the markings and notches. Baste along the seam allowance line.
Step 2 – Prepare the stencil
Use the pattern to cut out the cardboard stencil that you will use as a guide for stitching.
Attach the stencil to the fabric using the Scotch double-sided tape.
Step 3 – Stitch the fabric
Use the stencil as your guide and sew a straight line, making sure to use smaller stitches around the corners to reinforce them. Remove the basting and trim the corners close to the stitching. Trim the rest of seam allowances to ¼”.
Step 4 – Press
Press the seams open. Turn the piece over and carefully use the point turner tool to push the corners out. Press.
Use the same method to sew any other part of the garment where precision is important. I am not shy to admit that this is my preferred choice for stitching perfect bound buttonholes, welted pockets, and even some top-stitching when a jagged stitching line is not an option.
