Seam Allowance

Definition

The area between the fabric edge and the stitching line — the extra fabric required to create a seam. Standard seam allowances range from 6mm for overlocked knit seams to 15mm for woven garments. Seam allowance must be consistent throughout cutting and sewing; variation leads to fit discrepancies. Patterns always include seam allowance, and it is specified in the tech pack for each seam type.