Trimmings in contrasting colors work well, particularly with accessories in the same color. In the home these accessories may be some candles in the same color as the new finishing and decorating touches used on cushions or a table runner. A hair ribbon in the same color as the trimmings on kids’ clothes may do the trick.

Important things to remember when using trimmings:

•Look at what is in fashion (e.g. Lace trimmings)

•Trimmings must be suitable to the fabric

•Less is more

Some great finishing and decorating ideas to get you started.

Self-trim edgings

•Looped edging: Make lengthwise strips about 1 ¼ inches wide. Fold lengthwise and stitch about ¼ inch from edge. Turn inside out, press. Cut pieces exactly the same size, put ends together to form loop and baste to garment / sewing project with even spacing, using same method as for pointed edging.

•Pointed edging: Cut lengthwise strips 1 ¼ inches wide. Cut into squares and fold diagonally once and then again. Baste onto right side of garment, edges together, overlapping points. Baste bias facing on top, stitch all together, trim seam, turn bias to wrong side, slip stitch to position.

Bands

•Bands are applied as trims - often in the reverse manner to facings - that are turned to the outside. Bands may be ribbon or self-fabric; flat, gathered, pleated or tucked. For professional results, use the machine edge stitcher or zigzag stitch. Miter corners. Bands are often used to give garments or any other item for that matter a new look or repair a worn edge.

•Double band: Make two bands, stitch all around on three sides, right sides together, trim seams, turn and finish fourth side by hand, turning in raw edges. Used for ties at the front edge of a garment or for bows and other neckline decorative finishes.

•Bands are sometimes buttoned to garments for detachable trim. Make buttonholes in band, and sew buttons onto garment.

Lace Trimmings

•To gather lace, pull thread at the straight edge to desired fullness, or whipstitch over edge, pulling up thread every few stitches to gather. Usually twice as much lace as the space to which it is to be applied is used.

•To make a lace insertion, baste lace onto right side. Use a satin stitch or fine running stitch at joining. Cut away fabric underneath, and hand roll raw edges, catching in lace. Or, appliqué with zigzag stitching, the machine zigzagger, hemming. Overhanding, or blanket stitching. To put a lace insertion in lace fabric, overcast or zigzag stitch.

•To turn corners, make a miter with tiny, close, overcastting stitches so that the effect is like a fine cord. Cut away excess. Or, make little pleats around corners, preserving the curve.

Enjoy your whole new look with trimmings. There are really no limitations to your finishing and decorating clothing and other home sewing projects. Let your creative juices flow and the sky is the limit.