Are you tired of trying to match dart legs, thinking there must be a simpler way? Most patterns will tell you to match them by “folding in half,” but this is easier said than done! Thankfully, there’s a better answer.
If you are new or a pro at sewing darts, read on to discover an amazing tip that will speed up the process and allow you to sew perfectly accurate darts every time!Â
This simple technique can be used to match any type of dart. It works especially well when your pattern calls for double pointed darts, which can be very time-consuming to match by eye.
Your secret weapon? All you need is a needle and thread!
How to perfectly match dart legs
Step 1:
Place the dart markings on the right side of the fabric with a removable marking device as shown on your pattern piece.
Thread a hand sewing needle with a long single thread. There is no need to knot the end. You can use regular or heavier weight thread.
Step 2:Â
With the right side of the fabric up, insert the needle down at the point and bring it back up about 1/4″ to 3/8″ up the left dart leg. Pull the stitch through, leaving a 2-3″ thread tail at the point.Â
Step 3:
Take another stitch directly across the dart along the other dart leg.
Step 4:
Continue this pattern with 1/4″ to 3/8″ stitches, alternating sides until you reach the top of the dart. Keep a single thread throughout this basting process.
Make sure your stitches follow the marked lines, the more accurate you are the better your dart will look once it is sewn.
Step 5:
When you reach the top of the dart, be sure to finish stitching about 1/8″ from the raw edges to get the best possible results.Â
Step 6:
Hold the thread tail (near the point) in one hand and pull the needle end of the thread tightly to draw the dart legs together. Done. Your dart is perfectly matched!
Step 7:
Now, finish by machine stitching the dart. Fold your fabric in half, right sides together. There is no need to press the folded edge. Mark the point of your dart to remind you where to stop sewing.
Step 8:
Begin stitching your dart at the raw fabric edges. Backstitch to secure the threads and continue stitching along the basted lines that mark your dart legs.Â
When you are about a 1/2″ from the point, shorten your stitch length significantly and slowly stitch off the folded fabric edge at the point. Remove your fabric from the machine, leaving long thread tails.Â
Step 9:
Tie the thread tails at the dart point in a careful knot. Make sure not to tie the threads too tightly. This can cause gathers to form at the point of your dart.
Step 10:
Remove the basting thread. Press your dart carefully.
Tips for sewing a double point dart
Hand sew the basting stitches twice. Begin at each point and end at the center of the dart.
To finish, machine stitch from the cebter of the dart to the dart point twice, once in each direction. It may be helpful to clip the centre of the dart to reduce tension on the fabric.
You might also enjoy our post on the secrets to sewing perfect darts.
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