Align - To match fabric edges, the pattern on the fabric (plaid or other printed/woven pattern) or pattern match points (notches or diamonds on the pattern).
Alter – Modify a pattern or garment to customize the fit. This can be done by changing the length, modifying darts, taking in side seams, just to name a few.
Apparel – Another term for clothing or garments.
Appliqué – A piece of fabric sewn, by hand or machine, on top of a larger piece of fabric; often used as a decorative element. No-sew appliqué is done using fusible web. The word can also be used as a verb referring to the act of doing appliqué.
Apex – In its most general meaning, apex means tip or point. On a sewing pattern, apex frequently refers specifically to where the bust point should hit the garment, but can also refer generally to the point where a dart terminates.
Armscye – The armhole opening of a garment or pattern. This is an unusual sounding word that is thought to derive from the Scottish for “arm’s eye”.
Arrow – A symbol printed on pattern pieces to indicate the direction of the lengthwise grain (when laying out pattern pieces), direction of stitching, or the direction in which to fold pleats and tucks.
Asymmetrical – The opposite of symmetrical; refers to garment details that are uneven or unbalanced such as the hemline.
Thank you for reading and happy sewing!
Recommended Reading:
Complete Photo Guide to SewingThis sewing reference is loaded with pictures that show step-by-step procedures for different techniques. It is a great book to have in your library to go to when having difficulty or when you want to learn something new.
