Pfaff 2170 - Manual (Page 94)

Decor
ative sewing
4:25
Gathering with straight stitch
A straight stitch can be used to gather sleeves, cuffs, skirts or valances.
To obtain neat and even gathers you should sew two or three rows of
gathering stitches.
• Set your stitch length to 6.0 mm. Lower thread tension to 3.
• Mark
the fi rst gathering line on the right side of the fabric. Sew
along this line. Leave about 4 - 5 inches (10-13 cm) of thread at the
beginning and end of the seam.
• Sew 1 or 2 more rows of stitching, using the edge of the presser foot
as a guide.
• Gather the fabric by pulling the bobbin (bottom) threads to the
desired fullness.
• Distribute the gathers evenly and knot the thread ends together to
secure the gathering.
Tip: It is important to use a strong thread when gathering to avoid thread breakage when
pulling on the gathering threads.
Shell edging
Shell edging is a very effective fi nish for thin, soft fabrics such as silk
and rayon fabrics. It is frequently used as a hem fi nish on lingerie.
• Select blind stitch no. 5 and mirror it with the side to side icon.
• Tighten the thread tension to create a deeper shell tuck.
• Finish the raw edge and press the seam allowance to the left.
• While sewing, make sure the fabric runs under the presser foot at
half of the foot width, and the blind hem swings over the folded
edge.
Tip: Add a colored pearl cotton thread on the folded edge as you sew the shell tuck. This
creates a pretty contrast and strengthens the hem.