A Smooth Finish--Clipping Curved Seams

How can you make curved seams look smooth with a professional finish? Pinking shears are your new best friend. Let me give you a closer look.

Here is a seam sewn on a curve. The seam allowance is consistent throughout. Here's what the bag exterior looks like if you don't do anything further:

A little bumpy, wouldn't you agree? Not bad, but it could be better with one simple extra step.

These are pinking shears. They look like scissors with jagged teeth. Don't be afraid! They are quite friendly, if a bit awkward the first few times you use them.

Cut as if you were using regular scissors. Cut along the edge, being careful not to cut any of the seam that you just sewed.

This is what the exterior looks like with a clipped seam.

A side by side comparison. Left: unclipped. Right: clipped. Can you see the difference?

Much better! Give it a try the next time you sew a curved seam.