Wrapalong: Finishing the wrap edges

Today we’re finishing the vertical wrap edges of the dress – if you’re doing a fixed wrap dress you may not need to do this step.

First, serge the vertical edge if you’re using a serger (if not, don’t worry, jersey doesn’t fray so it’ll be fine).

Over to the ironing board, and fold it over to the wrong side by about an inch. Press.

When you fold it over, you’ll see that this brings the tie over to the wrong side, too. The top edge of the tie should intersect with the diagonal neckline band, as you can see in the photo below. Pin the tie down to keep it secure.

Bring out the wonder tape again! Tape the full length of the folded over piece.

Start by stitching down the tie junction. With right side up, use your sewing machine (ideally with a walking foot) to secure the tie down with a square of stitching. I do it this way because it’s hard to coverstitch over that many bulky layers, and you can be sure that the tie won’t detach under strain.

Now, serge or twin-needle the full length of the vertical wrap hem down! You sew from the right side, and the aim is to be sewing directly on top of the serged edge on the wrong side. The benefit of having serged it already is that the back always looks neat. If you haven’t serged you just need to be very careful, and remember that it’s better to have a bit of excess fabric on the back than to miss the edge.

(Apologies this photo is a bit confusing because the hem is already finished, but I forgot to take a photo earlier! The vertical hem is on the left hand side)

Aaaaannnnd, repeat for the other side.

LAST STEP TOMORROW!!! Any questions before then?