Slit reinforcement
A technique using ribbon to strengthen the top of a skirt slit to prevent tearing.
Where it is used
Reinforce Slit Area
p. 3- Reinforce the seam allowances around the slit area on the back pieces. To do this, measure up about 1.5 cm from the control point at the top of the slit and mark a new line with tailor's chalk. Apply the stabilizer from this mark down to the bottom edge of the dress, attaching it to the wrong side of the fabric.
Finish Slit Seam Allowances
p. 3- On the right side of the back pieces, mark the guide points by measuring 3–4 cm up from where the slit begins. Finish the seam allowances on a serger set to a 3-thread stitch, following the marked sections. Stitch from the right side of the fabric. Press with an iron.
Tack Side Seam Allowances
p. 7- Swap out the twin needle on the machine for a knit needle. Press the seam allowances at the side seams toward the front, and from the dress’s front side, add tack stitches about 0.5 cm away from the side seam. Each tack should be 3–4 stitches long. You can also secure the allowances by hand from the inside.
Prepare Slit Corners
p. 8- Fold back the seam allowances for the slit. Turn the hem allowance up to the right side of the fabric. Pin along the short edge. Sew with a 0.7 cm seam allowance on the machine. Start stitching at the edge of the hem fold. Press with an iron.
Topstitch Slit
p. 9- Topstitch the seam allowances along the slit on the right side, keeping 0.5 cm from the edge. Start stitching exactly at the hem seam and finish at the hem seam on the other side. Secure the beginning and end of the stitch with a backstitch. Press to finish.
Reinforcing Interfacing Areas
p. 1- Reinforce the glue areas (the shaded parts on the pattern). Depending on your fabric, you can reinforce the slit completely or just at the top.
