Sewing A French Seam

French seams are a wonderful way to finish your seams without using a serger or zig zag stitch.  

It is great for side seams and shoulder seams.   Perfect for Blouses, Dresses and Skirts. 

For the Anna Blouse, all seams are finished with French Seams except for the armhole/sleeve seams.  French Seams work best if the seam allowance is 1/2" or larger and there is no on-seam pockets.  

The Anna Blouse has 5/8" seams which is what this tutorial is based on.

1)
Place your fabric panels wrong sides together matching the raw edges of the seams.
Stitch the seam with a 1/4" seam allowance.

2)
Press the seam open.

3)
Place the panels right sides together and press the seam flat.
Stitch with a 3/8" seam allowance.

4)
Press the seam towards the back panel.

Yay!  Your have a fabulous couture quality seam finish to use in your projects!

xo
Charise