Sewing darts in a dress involves accurately marking, pinning, and stitching the dart to create shape and contour. Based on the provided reference, here's how to sew darts, specifically focusing on back darts for dress alterations:
Steps to Sew a Dart
- Mark the Dart: Ensure the dart's legs and point are clearly marked on the wrong side of the fabric. Use tailor's chalk or a fabric marker.
- Pin the Dart: Fold the fabric with right sides together, matching the dart legs. Pin along the marked lines, starting from the widest part of the dart and working towards the point.
- Stitch the Dart:
- Begin sewing at the widest part of the dart (the edge of the fabric). Use a regular stitch length.
- Sew along the marked line towards the dart point.
- When you get to the center of the waist, leave the needle in the down position, lift the presser foot, and turn the fabric slightly.
- As you approach the dart point, gradually reduce the stitch length for the last inch or so to create a smooth, subtle point.
- Blending at the Tip: According to the reference, at the tip of the dart, blend right off the fabric, securing the stitch. This means as you get to the very end of the dart, stitch close to the fold and right off the edge of the fabric. This avoids a bulky, abrupt ending.
- Press the Dart: Press the dart flat, then press it to one side. Generally, vertical darts are pressed towards the center front or center back.
Tips for Perfect Darts
- Accuracy: Precise marking and pinning are crucial for symmetrical and well-shaped darts.
- Tension: Maintain consistent fabric tension while sewing to prevent puckering.
- Practice: Practice sewing darts on scrap fabric to perfect your technique.
