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Creative Solutions
Dictionary of Sewing Terms
Sewing Information
J
JEAN JUMPER
A jean jumper is used to hold the presser foot up a little to make sewing seams on denim (or any other thick material) a little easier.
K
KICK PLEATS
Similar to box pleats, except the pleats are further apart as the folds do not butt together at the back.
KNIFE PLEATS
A row of folds running in the same direction.
L
LINING
A lining is used on the inside of a garment (for eg jackets and coats) to hide the inside construction and seams, and also to give a decorative effect. Usually lining is made of a silky type fabric to make the garment easier to put on.
M
MACHINE EMBROIDERY
Machine embroidery is a decorative type of stitching that can be created using a normal sewing machine or more effectively by using a special machine dedicated to embroidering.
MEND
To "mend" is to fix or repair a hole, split, tear, or other type of damage made to a garment. Depending on the severity of damage there are various methods you can use for eg. machine or hand stitches can be used to "bind" small tears and splits. Iron-on and sew-on patches are useful for larger areas.
MITERING
A method of folding the excess seam allowance to gain a sharper and less bulky corner. Often used for quilt corners, vests, jackets and occassionally on collars.
MODERATE STRETCH KNIT
You will often find this term used as the suggested fabric on the envelope of a purchased pattern. It explains the amount of stretch that the fabric will need to have in order to construct the garment properly.
N
NAP
A one-way textural direction of a fabric, such as velvet or corduroy. When using these types of "fuzzy" fabrics with a nap all pieces must be cut with the nap running in the same direction.
NARROW HEM
This type of hem is 1/4" or 1/8" and often used on lingerie, shirts, napery, or anywhere that you require an inconspicuous hem. There are special sewing feet you can buy to make a narrow hem, or otherwise you can turn the hem up with your fingers.
NEEDLE
The two most common types of sewing machine needles are ball point and sharps. The ball point needle is usually used for knits, and basic sharp points are normally used for non-stretch, woven fabrics. There are many other types of sewing machine needles such as all purpose, wedge-point, perfect stitch, jean, wing and also twin and triple needles. See individual definitions for more information on each needle type.
NOTCH
This small cut in the seam allowance allows fabric to bend at corners and curves. On a paper pattern it is shown as a dark colored diamond.
NOTION
Notions are items (apart from a sewing machine and fabric) that are used for sewing. Also called findings and sundries.
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