Quick Answer
To use pinking shears for seam finishing, cut along the raw edge of your fabric with the zigzag blades, leaving about 1/8 inch from the seam line. This creates a neat, fray-resistant edge that works well on woven fabrics.
Why Pinking Shears Work for Seam Finishing
Pinking shears cut a zigzag edge that reduces the length of exposed threads, which helps prevent fraying. This makes them a quick alternative to overcasting or binding seams, especially on tightly woven fabrics like cotton and linen.
Keep in mind that pinking is not a permanent finish. For fabrics that fray heavily, such as silk or loose weaves, you may need to combine pinking with a line of stitching or use a different method like a zigzag stitch or bias binding.
Choosing the Right Pinking Shears
Comfort matters when you're cutting through multiple layers. Look for shears with comfortable grips and sharp stainless steel blades that can handle fabric, paper, and even yarn without dulling quickly.
The CutWorks Pinking Shears, Comfort Grip (8 inches) are a good example: they feature unique handles for a comfortable grip and premium stainless steel blades, making them suitable for both sewing and crafting projects.
Step-by-Step: Finishing Seams with Pinking Shears
- Prepare your fabric: Press your seam open or to one side as desired. Make sure the raw edges are aligned and free of wrinkles. A flat, wrinkle-free edge ensures an even zigzag cut.
- Trim the seam allowance: Using pinking shears, cut along the raw edge of the seam allowance, leaving about 1/8 inch from the stitching line. Cut smoothly without stopping mid-way to avoid jagged notches. Don't cut too close to the stitching—leaving 1/8 inch prevents the seam from pulling apart.
- Inspect the cut edge: Check that the zigzag is even and that no long threads are left sticking out. If you see any, trim them carefully with the pinking shears. An even zigzag edge is your best defense against fraying.
- Test for fraying: Gently tug the cut edge to see if any threads pull loose. If they do, consider adding a line of straight stitching 1/4 inch from the edge before pinking, or use a different finish. If the fabric still frays, switch to a zigzag stitch or binding for a more secure finish.
Product Spotlight
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CutWorks Pinking Shears, Comfort Grip: These 8-inch pinking shears feature unique handles for a comfortable grip and super-sharp stainless steel blades, and they can cut fabric, paper, string, and yarn. The comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue during long cutting sessions, and the sharp stainless steel blades ensure clean zigzag cuts that prevent fraying effectively.
CutWorks Pinking Shears, Comfort Grip
