What is a seam allowance?

What is a seam allowance?

• A. The width of the fabric
• B. The stitch length
• C. The distance from seam line to the edge
• D. The length of the seam

Answer: (C)

Seam allowance is the extra fabric you leave beyond the line where you plan to sew two pieces together. It’s the distance from the seam line to the edge of the fabric, not the overall width of the fabric, not the stitch length, and not the final length of the seam. This extra space lets you stitch the pieces together cleanly and gives room for finishing the edge or trimming if needed. Patterns often specify how wide this allowance should be (for example, 5/8 inch or 1/4 inch), and some patterns include the allowance in the pattern pieces while others require you to add it yourself. If you don’t leave enough seam allowance, the seam can be tight or split; too much can create bulk at the seam.

Seam allowance is the extra fabric you leave beyond the line where you plan to sew two pieces together. It’s the distance from the seam line to the edge of the fabric, not the overall width of the fabric, not the stitch length, and not the final length of the seam. This extra space lets you stitch the pieces together cleanly and gives room for finishing the edge or trimming if needed. Patterns often specify how wide this allowance should be (for example, 5/8 inch or 1/4 inch), and some patterns include the allowance in the pattern pieces while others require you to add it yourself. If you don’t leave enough seam allowance, the seam can be tight or split; too much can create bulk at the seam.