Understanding Right and Wrong Sides in Sewing: A Guide for Beginners

When taking on a sewing project, one of the first questions that may come to mind is, which side of the fabric should I start with? This is a critical aspect of sewing, particularly when using certain types of fabrics. Understanding the differences between the right and wrong sides of fabric is essential for achieving professional results. This guide aims to provide clarity on this topic, combine it with practical tips for different fabrics, and help you make the most of your sewing projects.

The Concept of Right and Wrong Sides of Fabric

Right Side vs. Wrong Side

When we talk about the right and wrong sides of fabric, we are referring to the appearance of the fabric in its finished state. The right side is the side that will be showing on the outside of the final garment or project. It is the side that is meant to be seen and is often smoother, with less visible surface details. The wrong side, on the other hand, is the side that will be facing inward and may show more texture or imperfections. Knowing which side is which can significantly impact the quality of your finished product.

Understanding the Differences

Velvet as an Extreme Example

Velvet, in particular, is an excellent example for understanding the importance of distinguishing between the right and wrong sides of fabric. On one side, the velvet is smooth and even, while the other side presents a dense pile of fibers. This pile has a specific direction, often identified by arrows on the fabric packaging. Sewing pieces of velvet together incorrectly can result in the pile being misaligned, leading to an uneven appearance in the finished project. This is why it is crucial to ensure that the pile direction is the same on both pieces before sewing them together.

Other Fabrics that Matter

Other fabrics that benefit from distinguishing between the right and wrong sides include:

Lace: The patterns and design details are typically more visible on one side, making it the right side. Corduroy: The smoother, flatter side is the right side, while the other side has more nubs and a slightly more textured look. Silk: The smooth side is the right side, with the more visible weave on the wrong side.

The Impact of Using the Wrong Side

Failing to pay attention to which side of the fabric you are using can result in several issues:

Velvet: Uneven pile direction, leading to an unnatural appearance. Lace: The design details might be hidden or obscured, resulting in a less appealing look. Corduroy: Uneven texture and a lesser quality finish. Silk: Loss of smoothness and an overall less professional appearance.

Practical Tips for Different Fabrics

Velvet

When working with velvet, it is essential to ensure that both pieces are oriented with their pile direction facing the same way. This will ensure that the final piece has a consistent, professional look. To check the pile direction, run your hand over the fabric; the pile will align in one specific direction.

Lace

Lace patterns are designed to be seen on the right side. If you are using lace, always ensure that the patterned side is facing outwards. This might involve turning the material over before adding to the body of the project.

Corduroy

Corduroy is more forgiving, but it is still important to orient the fabric properly. The smoother side should be facing up. Pay close attention to the pattern and color alignment of the fabric to ensure a neat finish.

Silk

For silk projects, the smooth side should always be on the outside of the garment. Ensure that the weave pattern is not visible on the wrong side to maintain the pristine appearance of your work.

Conclusion

Knowing the right and wrong sides of your fabric is crucial for achieving superior results in your sewing projects. Whether you are working with velvet, lace, corduroy, or silk, understanding these distinctions can greatly enhance the appearance and quality of your finished work. By being mindful of which side is which and ensuring that they are aligned properly, you can create professional-looking garments and accessories with confidence and ease.