Achieving a truly perfect corner in sewing combines precise stitching with careful finishing techniques. While the initial sewing and trimming steps are crucial, the method you use to turn and shape the corner after sewing is key to a sharp, professional look. Based on the provided reference, using specific tools during the turning process is essential for creating crisp points.
Essential Tools for Turning Corners
To get a sharp, clean corner after you've sewn and trimmed it, having the right tools on hand makes a significant difference. The reference highlights two important items:
- Point Turner: A tool designed to help gently push out corners from the inside without stressing or poking through the fabric.
- Awl: A sharp, pointed tool that allows for very precise manipulation of the fabric right at the tip of the corner.
Turning and Sharpening Your Corner: Step-by-Step
Once your corner is sewn and trimmed (reducing bulk), follow these steps, incorporating the techniques mentioned in the reference, to achieve a perfect, sharp point:
- Turn Right Side Out: Carefully turn the corner right side out. Start by pushing the bulk of the fabric through, then use a point turner to help ease the fabric fully out to the corner point.
- Refine with an Awl: As noted in the reference, you can use an awl to make it even sharper. Gently insert the tip of the awl right into the point of the corner from the outside and use it to carefully ease out the last bit of fabric, refining the sharpness of the point.
- Exercise Caution: It is important to be careful when using the Awl to pull the fabric out of the corner. Pushing too hard or at a wrong angle can damage the fabric or poke a hole. Use light pressure and finesse.
- Pressing: After turning and shaping with the awl, press the corner flat using an iron appropriate for your fabric type. Pressing sets the shape and contributes to a crisp finish. You might use a pressing cloth if needed.
Using a point turner gets you most of the way there, and then the awl provides that extra level of precision to achieve an exceptionally sharp tip, taking your corner from good to perfect.
Remember, the technique for sewing the stitches leading up to the corner (often stopping a specific distance before the edge) and properly trimming the seam allowance beforehand are also vital preparatory steps that, combined with careful turning and pressing, result in a beautifully finished corner.
