Learn to Sew a Plain Seam

Master the fundamental plain seam - a crucial basic sewing technique for beginners using a sewing machine.
Materials Needed:
  • Fabric scraps for practice
  • Sewing Machine
  • Scissors
  • Ruler or measuring tape
  • Pins

🎉 Hey everyone! Today we’re learning the plain seam, the most fundamental technique in sewing. This basic seam will serve as the foundation for many of your sewing projects.

Watch the Full Tutorial

What You’ll Learn

✅ How to properly align and pin fabric
✅ Set up your machine for basic straight stitching
✅ Sew a consistent, straight seam
✅ Press seams professionally

What You’ll Need

🧵 Two pieces of fabric for practice (6” x 6” each)
🪡 Sewing machine with straight stitch setting
✂️ Scissors for trimming threads
📏 Seam allowance: I’ll be using a ⅝ inch (1.5cm) seam allowance
🧷 Pins for securing fabric

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

✂️ Place fabric pieces right sides together (pretty sides facing each other)
📍 Pin the edges you want to join, keeping pins perpendicular to the edge

Step 2: Set Up Your Machine

🧵 Thread both top and bobbin
✨ Select straight stitch
📏 Set stitch length to 2.5-3mm (standard setting)

Step 3: Start Sewing

🪡 Align the raw edge with your seam allowance guide
✨ Begin with a backstitch to secure the seam
📍 Remove pins as you approach them (never sew over pins!)

Step 4: Press Your Seam

👉 First press the seam as sewn
✨ Then press the seam allowance open or to one side

Bonus Tips

👍 Keep your eye on the seam allowance guide, not the needle
🧵 Practice maintaining a steady speed
✨ Use the hand wheel for precise control at corners

And that’s it! You’ve mastered the basic plain seam. Happy sewing! 🧵😊

Next Steps

Ready to try more seam techniques? Here’s what you can learn next:

🧵 French Seams - Perfect for sheer fabrics
Hong Kong Seam - A professional finish
📍 Curved Seams - Essential for sleeves and necklines
✂️ Flat-felled seams - Coming soon!

Remember, practice makes perfect! Keep some scrap fabric handy for practicing your seams. 🎯

Pro Tips

  • Pin fabric right sides together
  • Practice on scrap fabric before working on your actual project
  • Keep your seam allowance consistent
  • Start with a slower speed until you're comfortable