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Creative Solutions
Dictionary of Sewing Terms
Sewing Information
T
TACK/TACKING
Tacking is applying temporary stitching to hold material pieces together until the final stitching is completed.
TAILORS TACK
Using two threads through a needle, draw the needle through all fabric layers (and paper pattern), and snipping off the thread, but leaving a "tail" of thread at the top and bottom of the fabric as a way of marking the piece. Use a contrasting color thread for easy identification. You can use this method to mark darts, buttonholes etc.
TAPE MEASURE
A tape measure is made of a flexible material, about 60" long, and has a (usually) metal tab at each end. Measurements are marked on both sides, sometimes both metric and imperial.
TENSION
The term tension is used in two areas of your sewing machine. The first being the bobbin tension (which doesn't usually need to be adjusted). The second being the thread tension. You should carefully refer to your machines instruction manual with regards to both tensions.
THIMBLE
Thimbles are used to protect your middle finger when hand sewing. They are available in many materials eg. metal, wood, plastic, leather, ceramic. You wear the thimble on the hand that is actually using the needle to sew.
THREAD
Thread is the basis for sewing material together. It is usually the same (or complimentary) color as your fabric. This thread should be used on both the spool as well as in the bobbin of your machine to avoid problems such as bunching and knotting from occurring.
THREAD COUNT
The actual number of threads used per inch in a woven fabric.
TOP STITCH
This is a row of stitching which is visible on the completed product. This stitching can be decorative or purely functional. It is usually applied about 1/4" from the edge of a seam.
TRACING PAPER
Tracing paper is used with a tracing wheel to mark your fabric with the ink-like substance that is on one side of the paper.
TRACING WHEEL
A tracing wheel is used in conjunction with tracing paper. Laying the ink-side of the tracing paper down on the fabric, roll the wheel across the paper where you want the fabric to be marked. Do not press too hard with the tracing wheel as you may cut through the paper or fabric.
TRIM
Trim can have two meanings. The first being the act of removing excess fabric or thread etc with scissors. The second meaning of trim is a decorative accessory added to a garment or item eg lace, ribbon etc.
TUCK
See Pintucks. Tucks give a decorative, tailored appearance to a garment, often blouses. They are narrow, sewn rows of fabric that give a raised look to a garment.
U
UNDER-STITCHING
This form of stitching is applied as close to the seam line as possible to enable a piece of fabric to stay folded under. See "Stitch in the Ditch."
UNDERLINING
This is a lining that is used to add body to a garment.
UNIVERSAL NEEDLE
This sewing machine needle is used for knitted or woven fabrics. The needle has a slightly rounded tip.
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