Gathering Fabric with a Sewing Machine
Gathering fabric, or creating ruffles, is a great way to give a garment some extra fullness and texture. It’s fun and easy to do, and all you need is a sewing machine, a few basic tools, and a bit of patience. Here’s all you need to know to create beautiful ruffles with a sewing machine.
The Basics: What Is Gathers?
Gathers are simply folds of fabric stitched together at regular intervals that create a ruffle or “gathering.” These gatherings can be used to create surface texture on a garment, to add volume to skirts and other pieces, or even to tie two fabrics together without having to sew a seam.
How to Make Gathers with a Sewing Machine
Making gathers is actually quite straightforward. All you need to do is set your sewing machine to the longest stitch length available, and make two parallel row of stitches on your fabric. The two rows of stitches should run parallel to each other, but should be placed at least 1/4 inch apart. After you’ve made the two rows of stitches, pull the upper thread on one row of stitches to gather the fabric, and tie the other thread. This will create your gathers.
Types of Gathers
There are several different types of gathers, each of which provides a unique look and texture. The most common types are the single-row gather, the French gather, and the pleated gather.
The single-row gather is the simplest and most common type of gathering. It is created by making two rows of stitches that run parallel to each other, and then pulling the upper thread.
The French gather, sometimes called the “pleated” gather, is slightly more difficult but creates a more elegant look. For a French gather, you first need to make a single row of stitches, followed by two rows of tiny running stitches. You then need to pull both threads and gather the fabric.
The pleated gather is the most complex type of gather and requires more time and effort. This type of gathering is created by making two rows of stitches, followed by several rows of tiny running stitches. Once you’ve made the running stitches, gather the fabric by pulling both threads and pleating the fabric as you go.
Tools of the Trade
Gathering fabric with a sewing machine doesn’t require much in the way of specialized tools, but there are a few things that can make the task a bit easier. A gathering foot, for example, can be used to help make perfectly even gathers. A cord guide can also be used to keep the threads from tangling. Finally, a presser foot can be used to keep the gathers from shifting when you sew them onto an item.
Tips for Creating Perfect Gathers
Creating perfectly even and attractive gathers with a sewing machine takes some practice, but there are a few tips that can help you achieve the desired look.
One of the most important tips is to make sure the fabric is always pinned in place before you start to sew. This will ensure that your gathers stay even, and that your stitches remain straight. You should also make sure to pull the upper thread with even tension while creating the gathers. Pulling too hard can distort the fabric, while not pulling hard enough will make the gathers uneven.
Finally, be sure to use a longer stitch length than you would normally use. This will make it easier to pull the threads and create the desired gathering effect.
Using Gathers to Create Volume
Gathers are a great way to quickly and easily add volume to a garment. Gathers can be used to add fullness to a skirt, sleeve, or bodice, or to create an entire piece from gathered fabric. The trick is to create an even gathering and then to sew the gathers onto the garment in a way that will keep them securely in place.
Gathers on Seams and Edges
Gathers can be used to add volume and texture to seams and edges. For example, a skirt can be constructed with one piece of fabric that has a single gathering at the waistline. This will create more fullness at the waist, and give the skirt a more shapely fit. Gathers can also be used to create decorative edges on sleeves or on necklines.
Gathered Skirts
Gathered skirts are a great way to add volume and movement to a garment. These skirts are created by gathering the fabric either along the waistband or along the hem. The amount of fabric used for the skirt will vary depending on the desired look, but the more fabric used, the more volume will be created.
Gathered Bodices
Gathered bodices are a great way to add instant volume to a garment without adding bulk. A gathered bodice can be created by gathering fabric along the neckline or along the armholes. This will add shape and texture to the bodice, and depending on the fabric used, can create an interesting contrast.
Gathered Sleeves
Gathered sleeves are a popular way to add volume and texture to a garment. Gathered sleeves can be created by gathering fabric around the armhole and then attaching it to the sleeve opening. Depending on the fabric used, the gathers can create a flouncy, ruffled look or a more tailored, structured look.
Attaching Gathers to a Garment
Once the gathers have been created, the next step is to attach them to the desired garment. Before you begin, it’s important to make sure the gathers have been created evenly and that the fabric is pulled taut. It’s best to use a straight stitch to attach the gathers, as this will keep them securely in place.
Gathering with a Seam
If you want to add gathers on a seam like a waistband or armhole, it’s best to use a gathering stitch rather than a straight stitch. After setting the machine to the longest stitch length, sew two rows of stitches with a 1/4 inch seam allowance. When you’re finished, pull the upper thread to gather the fabric, then sew the gathers onto the garment using a regular straight stitch.
Gathering without a Seam
If you want to add gathers to a fabric edge like a neckline or sleeve opening, it’s best to use a regular, straight stitch. Make sure the thread is pulled tight as you stitch, and keep a close eye on the gathering to make sure it’s even. When you’re finished, sew the gathers onto the garment, then press them with an iron to flatten them and make them more permanent.
Gathering with Extra Volume
If you want to create extra volume with your gathers, you can use a double stitch. To do this, set the machine to the longest stitch length and make two rows of stitches at least 1/4 inch apart. Pull the upper thread to gather the fabric, then sew the gathers onto the garment using a regular straight stitch. This will create a fuller, more dramatic look.
Adding Gathers to a Finished Garment
Gathers can be added to a finished garment as long as you’re careful. First, make sure the garment is pressed and the fabric is pulled taut. Then, stitch the gathers onto the garment using a gathering stitch or a double stitch. You can then press the gathers with an iron to make them more permanent.
Adding Decorative Gathers
Decorative gathers are a great way to add texture and interest to a garment. To make decorative gathers, set the machine to the longest stitch length and make two rows of stitches about 1/4 inch apart. Pull the upper thread to create the gathers, then sew the gathers onto the garment in a decorative pattern.
Adding Gathers to Lining Fabric
Gathers can also be added to lining fabric to create extra texture and fullness. To do this, set the machine to the longest stitch length, and make two rows of stitches at least 1/4 inch apart. Pull the upper thread to create the gathers, then sew the gathers onto the lining.
Adding Delicate Gathers
If you’re looking to add delicate gathers to a garment, set the machine to a shorter stitch length and make two rows of stitches at least 1/4 inch apart. Pull the upper thread to create the gathers, then sew the gathers onto the garment in a decorative pattern. This will create a more delicate, subtle look.
Conclusion
Gathering fabric is a great way to add texture and volume to a garment. With a sewing machine, a few basic tools, and some patience, you can easily create beautiful ruffles and gathers. With just a bit of practice, you’ll be creating perfect gathers in no time!
