Glossary

Armscye: Armscye is a term used in sewing and fashion design to describe the opening in a garment where the sleeve is attached. It refers to the armhole area of a garment, which is typically cut to fit around the arm and shoulder.

Backstitch: Backstitching on a sewing machine is a technique used to secure the beginning and end of a seam to prevent it from unraveling. Start by sewing a few stitches forward, then stop and reverse your direction by pushing the reverse button or lever on your machine. Sew a few stitches in reverse, then stop and return to sewing in the original direction.

Baste: Basting is a temporary hand or machine sewing stitch used to hold fabric pieces in place before permanent stitching. Basting stitches are generally looser and larger than regular stitches, allowing them to be easily removed or adjusted as needed.

Bias: Bias cut fabric refers to fabric that has been cut at a 45-degree angle to the grain line of the fabric, instead of being cut parallel to the selvage edge. This results in a fabric that has more stretch and drape than if it were cut on the straight grain. The bias is the diagonal line that runs across the fabric at a 45-degree angle to the selvage.

Bias tape: Bias tape is a narrow strip of fabric that has been cut on the bias (a 45-degree angle to the grain line) and then folded and pressed to create a strip of fabric with two folded edges. It is used as a finishing trim on the edges of garments, such as necklines, armholes, and hems, and is also used to bind seams.

Binding: A strip of fabric used to cover a seam edge or enclose raw edges. Binding creates a neat finish and a decorative touch.

Blind hem: Stitch that is not meant to be seen from the right side of the fabric. Usually done by picking up just a few threads of fabric rather than going all the way through.