Welt seam

What is a Welt Seam?

A welt seam is a plain, usually double-sewn and stitched at a reinforced point. This method creates a single seam line with both seam allowances next to each other, and another line is formed through both of them, almost exactly on their original seams. This method offers extra protection and impeccable visual appeal on one side of the fabric, making the welt seam the first choice in garments and upholstery.

Why Choose a Welt Seam?

Durability

Welts are extremely strong and best suited to tough, high-wear, or stress areas of garments or products.

Aesthetic

Welts look tidy and elegant. One side of a simple seam and the other stitching lines slide beside the other as an embellishment.

Versatility

Welt seams are suitable for various fabric types, accessories, and clothing. They can improve functionality and breathe new life into your projects’ appearance.

How to Sew a Welt Seam?

- Sew a Plain Seam: The steps initially included sewing a plain seam with the right sides of the fabric facing each other.
- Press the Seam Open: Separate the cloth and straighten it to one side.
- Topstitch: Stitch seam allowances and fabric where the seam allowances already were pressed. This is the usual approach that gives the item an untidy finish.

When Should Welt Seams Be Used?

Welt seams are particularly recommended for:

- Heavyweight or thick fabrics where reducing bulk is crucial.
- Garments like jeans, jackets, and pants need more strength.
- Projects that call for the decorative element of functionality, such as home décor or accessory design.

How to Fix Mistakes in Welt Seams

Realignment of Stitching

In case your stitching is not in line, properly remove it with a seam ripper and retry it next to a guide to ensure it’s made in the proper place.

Reducing Bulk

Cut it off carefully if there is too much material in the Seam. Trim the seam allowance from the cloth’s inner side, ensuring you do it with utmost precision without compromising the stitching.

Reinforcing Stitching

If you have a problem with the Seam’s integrity or feel it’s not strong enough, you can put on another layer of topstitching for extra strength.