Sewing Corners

Sewing corners can be found in most garments in places like collars, bows, pockets and straps and in countless other sewing projects such as quilts, pillows, and bagmaking. Here I will show you just how easy it is to learn how to sew corners.

How to Sew Corners

If you are a beginner then drawing the seam line at the corner with chalk or removable pen will help you to predict when to pivot.

Sew normally along the seam line until just before the corner. As you approach the corner slow right down.

Stop at the corner with the needle down in the fabric. Lift the presser foot and pivot the fabric right round to face the new direction. Start sewing normally again.

How to Sew Corners: Trimming and Clipping

Once you have sewn the corner you will need to trim some of the bulk of the fabric away before you turn it the right way out.

For a 90 degree angle, just snip the point of the corner off. If your seam allowance is wider than 1/4 inch (6mm) you can trim a bit off the sides at an angle too. For narrow seam allowances, this is not usually necessary.

Sharp or smaller corners such as those found on collars may require a little extra trimming to remove excess fabric. If your fabric is thick or you have a lot of layers, you may need to grade the seams as well.

For very narrow corners, you will also get a better result by stitching across the corner a couple of stitches to lessen the point and to leave room for the seam allowance when it is turned the right way.

For inside corners, you will need to snip into the corner almost up to the stitching line.

The last step in sewing corners is to turn your corner the right way out. Use something pointy (but not sharp) to poke the corner out and always press well.

How to Sew Corners: Turning Tools

I have a bad habit of using my scissors as they are always handy but be careful if yours have a sharp point as you may accidentally cut the fabric or poke a hole through the end.

A knitting needle, bamboo skewer or a specialized point turner will usually do a better job. You will generally need a selection of tools of different lengths and thickness on hand for different projects

There are numerous brands of point turners on the market including the popular Dritz and Clover and most are really cheap. Some have markings on them so as to double up as button and seam gauges. Fewer tools to lose in your sewing room!