How to Gather in Sewing
Gathering is a simple sewing technique you can use in making various projects. Some examples of a gathered fabric are ruffles, pleated skirts and puffy sleeves. Here are some steps you can follow to gather fabrics.
Types of Gathering:
Pleating is used to make larger folds or waves. This is usually made by hand.
Shirring is to decoratively gather fabric using parallel stitches.
Things you’ll need:
Strips of cloth
Thread
Needle
Sewing Machine
Gathering by Hand
You can easily gather fabric without the use of a sewing machine.
Thread a needle with the thread about twice as long as your strip of cloth. Create a knot at the end of your thread.
Make small running stitches on the edge of the strip of cloth. Be sure to sew even stitches on the fabric.
Pull the thread lightly and move the fabric to create small waves while making running stitches.
When your done with the whole strip, secure your gathered fabric by tying the end of the thread.
Using a Sewing Machine
Set your machine for basting.
Sew 2 parallel lines using a baste stitch on the edge of your cloth.
Leave an extra length of thread on the beginning and end of each line.
Tie 2 threads together on one end of your cloth.
Move your cloth to create waves.
Tie the other ends together to secure your gathered fabric.
Tips:
Make sure to use strong threads for gathering. Avoid having to redo everything when the thread breaks.
To make it easier for you, divide large sections into smaller sections before gathering. This way, even when the thread breaks, you wouldn’t have to redo the entire project.
Divide the cloth and mark the centers for even pleats and ruffles. Simply fold the cloth into half and mark the center of the fold with a small dot. Keep folding the cloth until you get your desired size.
Gathering can be used in various sewing projects. Have your work noticed and admired by friends by adding pretty ruffles and pleats.