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Seam Allowance

By Debbie Colgrove, About.com

Photo of the parts of a seam

Anatomy of a Seam

Debbie Colgrove, Licensed to About.com
Definition: Seam allowance refers to the area between the stitching and raw, cut edge of the fabric.

The most common seam allowances are 1/4", 1/2" and 5/8". Always check your pattern directions and use the seam allowance called for in the directions.

A seam joins more than one pieces of fabric. All layers of fabric joined by a seam must have the same seam allowance. Make sure that the raw edges line up evenly to create an equal seam allowances on all of the pieces being joined.
Examples: Sewing accurate seam allowances is an important key to having your pattern pieces fit together.

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