We humans need to classify everything.
A few days ago, I was reading a note about a neurological study. There, they explained that by nature, people tend to classify everything. We classify either physical objects or ideas and concepts.
But why do we do this? The answer is as simple as insightful: when we classify something, what we really do is analyze it to understand it.
We instinctively make associations through common elements. For example, if we think of types of food, we will probably think of their origin (vegetable, animal, mineral, or processed). But if we were elite athletes, or we were on a diet, we will classify them by their composition (proteins, fats, sugars) or by their calories.
Classifications.
Another example closer to our work could be the classification of garments.
We can do it according to the type of fabric, the part of the body that covers, the seasons, by its style, etc.
It happens the same with seams… we can classify them according to:
- their structure
- their function
- the way they’re sewn
- the amount of layers
- their resistance
- their cost
At ABC Seams® we classify seams according to their main function.
At the moment we need to define how the garment will be assembled, the first thing we regard is the main function of each seam:
- join two or more pieces (construction)
- polish an edge (finish)
- decorate, attach a piece, or modify the volume (details)
After that, we’ll consider other factors such as the structure of the seam, its cost, its resistance, its elasticity, etc.
Let’s see this in detail.
Category 1
Construction Seams
These seams assemble the product by joining two or more layers of fabric. For example, the armhole seam (joining the sleeve to the body) or the side seam (joining front and back).
Some seams within this category are: the French Seam, the Welt Seam and the Overlapped Seam.
Category 2
Finishing Seams
The main function of these seams is to polish the edge of the fabric, preventing fraying or raveling.
Also, depending on the technique, the finishing seams provide great decorative and functional value.
Some examples of these seams are the cuffs, hems, and plackets.
In this category, we find seams such as Hems, Bound Hems, and Faced Hems.
Category 3
Detail Seams
The third category brings together those seams that has an ornamental purpose, superimposed pieces, or those to modify the volume of the garment. We will see these seams in skirts, patch pockets, appliques, and in the bust area, among others.
The best-known seams in this category are the Pleats, Box Pleats, and Patch Seams.
Understanding the types of seams will help you to:
- increase your technical knowledge
- be clearer when talking to your colleagues
- get a better position at work
Today we’ve talked about how sewing seams are classified. We’ve seen the 3 categories and their main function. We’ve also shown 17 groups of seams belonging to these categories.
Did you find this article interesting?
Tell us in the comments below if you’ve learned something new today.
In the next article, we will talk about the properties of each group of seams.
Cheers!,
Belu
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This is fantastic! Thank you so much 🙂
Thank you Hayley, glad you like it 🙂