Most crafters have dreamed of creating and designing their own textiles. Although the traditional method of fabric ruffling can be time consuming and tiresome, it is possible to ruffle fabric with a sewing machine. This process eliminates the need to tediously pinch and gather fabric by hand. Consequently, this method is much faster, efficient and requires less effort.
Before attempting to ruffle fabric with a sewing machine, measure the fabric to be ruffled. Consider the desired length and width of the ruffles for the project. Next, cut the fabric according to the measurements. Use an iron to press the fabric, then tug on the fabric in a zigzag motion to create a natural gather. After, use pins to secure the fabric in place.
Next, set up the sewing machine to the settings appropriate for the fabric. Many sewing machines have a machine gathering foot that can be used to ruffle fabric. Consider the tension settings, needle placement and foot preferences.
Once the settings have been finalized, lay the fabric on the sewing machine bed and begin to sew. Sew slowly and steadily, as speed and intricate patterns can complicate and disfigure the fabric. Slower speeds give more accurate stitches and crisper ruffles. Sew the entire length of the fabric before gently tugging at the fabric to even out the ruffles.
In order to have the best results, choose the correct needle size for the fabric. For example, a thicker fabric will require a stronger needle but vulnerable, delicate fabrics will be best paired with a thinner needle for finer, neater ruffles. Additionally, using a specialized gather foot or overlock will create uniform ruffles.
Controlling the amount of tension on the bobbin and the upper thread is essential to the ruffling process. If the tension is too loose, the ruffles will be limp. On the flip side, too much tension will give ruffles that are too stiff. It is best to practice on scrap fabric to find the right settings and tension before beginning the actual project.
Different Types Of Ruffles
From the classic ruffled tier to an edgy frill, there is a range of ruffle types one can create with a sewing machine. Some popular types of ruffles include double ruffle, kick pleat ruffle and horsehair braid. The double ruffle is a two layered ruffle used to embellish the neck of a dress, while the kick pleat ruffle is created using two broadside fabric layers stitched together. The horsehair braid brings volume and dimension to the ruffles and is mostly used for adding pleats to skirts.
The type of fabric used also contributes to the success of the ruffles. Cotton material is a popular choice for the process being lightweight and breathable but sturdy enough to be molded into pleats. In contrast, silk is not an ideal fabric for ruffling, since it is slippery and delicate. This may require extra pins to secure the pleats. Alternatively, polyester is also a suitable fabric for ruffling, as its firmness and lightweight nature makes it easier to manipulate.
Ruffles From Ribbon
Ruffles can also be made from ribbon. Ribbon ruffles are delicate and dainty, the perfect accessory to art projects, clothing and fabric handicrafts. Before beginning, measure how much ribbon is needed and thread it onto the sewing machine. Alter the tension to a looser setting, as the ribbon is much more delicate than fabric. Monitor the stitch tension and slow down the speed of the machine as the ribbon can be pulled into the needle if it is going too fast. Allow for sewing clearance at the ends to prevent the ends from unraveling.
Lastly, always use stabilizer for the project. Stabilizer results in neat and controlled stitches, prevents puckering and keeps the fabric from stretching or falling apart. Cut away the excess stabilizer when the project is finished for added finesse.
Presser Feet Tips
Presser feet are a valuable accessory for any seamstress, especially when attempting to ruffle fabric with a sewing machine. These feet have a ridge along the side of the metal plate that helps to keep the fabric in the desired position while sewing. Additionally, adjustable feet can shift the fabric in more than one plane. This is extremely helpful because it eliminates the manual process of moving and re-adjusting the fabric in order to keep it in the right position.
Another helpful feature is presser feet with narrower sole pieces and clear plastic plates. This enables the seamstress to better observe and gauge the amount of fabric that is being fed into the machine. By combining these tools and taking advantage of their features, quality ruffles can be achieved more quickly and easily.
Hemmed Ruffles
Hemmed ruffles, which are a combination of a wide hem and the fabric that is ruffled together, are a convenient way to make volume or decoration to a project. To create a hemmed ruffle, fold the fabric in half and press it to make a ridge. This ridge should be facing downward. Sew the fabric along the ridge and gently tug the fabric to loosen the threads and create a ruffle.
Using a serger, which assists in this process with the overlock stitch and seam finishing, will produce a more even seam. However, a regular sewing machine can also accomplish this look by carefully turning the needle to a zigzag stitch and altering the tension settings. To ensure a secure seam, finish the edge with a tailored binding.
Faux Ruffles
Faux ruffles, also known as a false ruffle, can be made by sewing a strip of ruched fabric to the material chosen. Ruched fabric is created by pulling a ribbon or thread either below or on top of the fabric. This forms tight gathers that cluster together and gives the appearance of ruffles without actual pleating.
When sewing the ruched fabric to the material chosen, use a thick thread to secure the two pieces. It is best to attach the ruched fabric to the underside of the material, as that will make it appear more seamless. Sew only a few stitches at a time and keep a consistent stitch length between each stitch. This will ensure the ruffles come out evenly and more securely.
Finally, be sure to use the right needle type. In general, a universal needle is fine. Make sure it is the right size for the thread and the weight of the fabric to avoid thread breakage. Taking these basics into consideration will make creating faux ruffles with a sewing machine easy and enjoyable.
