A facing is perhaps the easiest, most conventional way to finish necklines, armholes and a garment’s opening edges.
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While the facing’s raw edges are enclosed and finished along with those of the garment, its bottom edge remains free-hanging and requires individual attention. Unless this free-hanging outer edge is sewn to lining, it will have to be finished using similar techniques to those of finishing hem allowance.
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When deciding which facing edge finish to use, consider the fabric weight, its sheerness and fraying degree when cut.
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If the facing is used along a garment opening that exposes the garment’s wrong side (an unlined jacket, for example), the facing edges should be finished in a clean, professional matter. In this case, use a technique that would look just as good if placed on the garment’s face side.
Regardless of design, the goal is to prevent the free-hanging facing edge from unraveling while also providing a finished, professional look. When complete, the finishing technique used shouldn’t add bulk or show through the fabric on the face of the garment.
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Bulk is always an important factor to consider. A good quality facing lays completely flat with no impressions showing on the face of the garment.
If the free-hanging edge is finished with a technique that adds unnecessary thickness, the impression line created by the edge will come through to the garment’s right side and thus prevent it from laying smooth and flat.
A good example of this occurrence is when the facing edge is finished with a double binding. If the binding is thicker and heavier than the garment layer, the impression of the bound edge will show through to the right side adding unnecessary bulk.
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Before applying a facing edge finish, all facing seams should be stitched and ironed. Keep in mind that it is easiest to finish the facing’s free-hanging edge before the facing is stitched to the garment.
Below are six (6) common facing finishes, including when and how to apply each one:
Below are six (6) common facing finishes, including when and how to apply each one:
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