how do u do a plain seam with a zig zag finish?

Answer 1

I don't know what type of machine you have, but mine is a fairly newer one (5 years old) and it does stretch stitches. There is a stretch stitch that has the zig-zag and it also has a straight stitch on either side of the zig-zag. It looks like this...

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...except not as cheesy and there is no space in between the zig-zag. :-)

If your machine does these, practice a lot with them first. The tension is a pain to get it just right.

Alright, I found a pic, it's called a double overlock, http://www.singerco.com/resources/stitch_detail.html?content_block_id=54

This is a list of stitches for a Singer machine, various models I'm assuming. http://www.singerco.com/resources/stitch_ref.html

Answer 2

First do the plain seam - straight stitch with right side of fabric to right side of fabric, raw edges even.
To the right of where you just switched, you now have two flaps of fabric called your seam allowance.
Lift up the top seam allowance so you're only sewing on the bottom seam allowance and not through both pieces of the fabric.
Set your sewing machine to do a zig-zag stitch and sew close to the edge of the seam allowance.
Repeat for the other seam allowance.

Most often, the purpose of doing a zig-zag finish is to prevent the seams from unraveling during wear. If you're working with a fabric that doesn't tend to ravel or isn't intended to last (i.e. a one-time costume), you could skip this step without any harm.

Answer 3

I just do a plain seam, then go over it again with the zig-zag. There may be newer machines that do it all in one.

Answer 4

If you have the money, get a serger/overlock machine. It will give you the nice finish.