Fake
Flatlock
Ever try and get a consistent flat-lock
stitch with your serger? Do you have
a model of serger that does
not allow
you to remove the blades? Or one that
can only go down to three threads? Do
you absolutely HATE messing around with
the tension dials?
If this is you, then
try this method for a "cheater" version
of the flatlock stitch.
Flatlocking
Flatlocking is serging two layers of
fabric together, then pulling them apart
until the seam lies flat. It takes experimentation
to get the tension just right. Too loose
a tension and the seam pulls away, too
tight and you can't get it to lay flat.
This is my version of flatlocking. It's
not the same but it works for me.
- Method 1 is used
in areas where there is a seam.
- Method
2 is for surface decoration.
Just as in normal flatlocking, fabrics
that work best are knits, sweatshirting
or polar fleece. These fabrics have a
more stable edge. Woven fabrics can be "fake" flatlocked
successfully if you shorten the stitch
length so your serging is denser. Try
using a decorative thread in the upper
looper for a well-filled stitch.
 Method
1
Serge the edges of the seams to
be joined, trimming off the seam
allowance. |
 Place
the two serged edges together, then
using a zig-zag stitch, sew the two
sides together.
Occasionally I will use a three
step zig-zag, this creates a sturdier
seam, but flattens the serging
more. |
| Your
fake flatlocked seam will be considerably
wider than normal flatlocking,
but I think the trade off is worth
the ease of completion. You can
use a decorative thread (rayon,
variegated, etc.) to zig-zag the
seam for added texture. |
 |
| |
|
Method 2
For surface fake flatlocking you
will need to allow for the amount "taken
up" by the serged edge. I
usually create the fabric first,
then cut out the garment. Very
heavy fabrics (like polar fleece)
will be extremely lumpy done this
way, but you may just use that
as a design consideration. |
Serge
a folded edge of your fabric, being
careful not to cut through the fold.
Press the serged edge so the
upper loops are on top. |
 Straight
stitch close to the loose edge to
attach to the fabric. You are in
essence making "pin tucks" and
stitching them down.
Obviously, you will not have
the tiny "ladders" formed
by normal flatlocking, but I always
find I use the "looped" side
anyway, so these methods make a
project fast and painless. |
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Embossing Velvet | Fake Flatlock | Freezer Paper Stencils | Geometric Bath | Inlay Weaving | Leaf Painting
Random Block Piecing | Reverse Appliqué | Sewing Down Under | Snail Trails | Travertine Walls
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