Adding lace trim is a wonderful way to bring elegance, detail, and a touch of personality to clothing, home décor items, and various crafting projects. The method you choose can depend on the type of lace, its placement on the fabric, and the desired final look.
A Specific Method: Adding Edging Lace to a Seam Allowance
One precise way to incorporate lace trim, particularly lace edging onto a seam allowance, involves careful placement before the final seam is completed or to finish an existing edge.
Here’s how to apply lace edging using this technique, based on the provided method:
- Decide on Placement: First, choose exactly where you want the lace edging to be positioned on your fabric.
- Place the Lace First: Lay the edging lace down on the fabric in the designated spot.
- Align for Seam Allowance: If you are adding the lace to a seam allowance, place the lace edging so that its straight side lies directly over the seam allowance.
- Stitch with Offset: Stitch the lace onto the fabric approximately 1/8" (3mm) away from the seam line. It is crucial that this stitching is offset onto the side of the fabric where you intend the lace to ultimately lie or show.
This method allows the lace to be securely attached to the seam allowance, potentially to be folded under or incorporated into a later step of construction.
General Considerations When Adding Lace Trim
While the method above is specific, adding lace trim generally involves similar principles of planning and careful execution.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Preparation: Consider pre-washing both your fabric and the lace trim, especially if they are made of different fibers, to account for potential shrinkage.
- Placement: Always plan your placement carefully. Use pins to secure the lace along the desired line before stitching. For curves, gently ease the lace around the shape.
- Stitching:
- A straight stitch close to the edge of the lace is common for flat trims or when applying edging directly to a finished edge.
- A zig-zag stitch can be used, especially for stretch fabrics or to give a more decorative edge finish while attaching the lace.
- Finishing: Trim away any excess fabric from behind the lace if necessary, especially if the fabric might show through delicate lace patterns.
Whether you are embellishing a hem, adding detail to a neckline, or creating a decorative edge on a seam allowance, understanding how to secure lace trim neatly is a valuable sewing skill.
