If you’ve ever sewn a curve, corner, or any tricky seam and wondered why your finished piece isn’t lying as flat as you’d like, we’ve got the answer: it’s all about clipping and notching! These essential techniques ensure your seams behave beautifully, whether you’re crafting plush toys, garments, or home décor. Let’s dive into the how and why of clipping and notching—and get you sewing like a pro!

What Are Clipping and Notching?

• Clipping: Snipping into the seam allowance (but not through the stitching!) to help the fabric lie flat when turned. Ideal for inner curves.

• Notching: Cutting small triangular wedges out of the seam allowance to reduce bulk. Perfect for outer curves.

Think of these techniques as a little massage for your fabric, helping it relax into its new shape. 😊

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When to Clip or Notch?

• Curved Seams:

  • Inner curves = Clip.

  • Outer curves = Notch.

• Corners: Trim diagonally across the seam allowance to reduce bulk.

• Thick Fabrics: Always notch to avoid lumps!

Pro Tip: Check your pattern instructions—many will specify when to clip or notch. If they don’t, use these general rules to guide you.

How to Clip Like a Pro

1. Use Sharp Scissors: Precision is key! Opt for small, sharp scissors to avoid cutting too deep.

2. Cut Perpendicular to the Seam: Make small, evenly spaced snips (about 1/4" apart) up to—but not through—the stitching line.

3. Avoid Over-Clipping: Too many snips can weaken the seam. A few strategic cuts usually do the trick!

Best for: Sewing projects with tight inner curves, like necklines or plushie arms.

Garment Sewing: Design Details on Creativebug

How to Notch Like a Pro

1. Cut Triangles: Use scissors to carefully snip out small triangles from the seam allowance, spacing them evenly.

2. Don’t Go Overboard: Notch enough to reduce bulk, but not so much that you compromise the seam’s strength.

3. Keep it Clean: Uneven notches can lead to lumps, so take your time!

Best for: Outer curves, like on sleeves, plush toy heads, or rounded hems.

Supplies You’ll Love for Clipping and Notching

Here are some tools to make this process even easier:

• Small, Sharp Scissors

• Why they work: Their precision tips let you make clean, accurate cuts close to the stitching without accidentally cutting through it.

• Examples:

  • Embroidery Scissors: Small, sharp blades for detailed work. Shop here.

  • Curved Tip Scissors: The slight curve prevents snipping into the fabric below your seam. Shop here.

• Duckbill Scissors

• Why they work: The wide “bill” protects the fabric underneath, ensuring you only trim what you need. These are particularly handy when clipping seam allowances.

• Shop here.

• Serrated Edge Scissors

• Why they work: Serrated edges grip slippery fabrics (like satin or knits) better, giving you more control while clipping or notching.

• Shop here.

• Thread Snips

• Why they work: Their small size and spring action make them great for quick, precise cuts on tight curves or corners.

• Shop here.

• Honorable Mention: Pinking Shears

• Why they work: While not ideal for precision clipping or notching, pinking shears can create a zigzag edge that helps reduce bulk and fraying, making them a good alternative for general seam finishing.

• Shop here.

Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality scissors and keep them sharp. Using dull or multipurpose scissors (the kind you might also use to cut paper) can lead to uneven cuts and frayed edges.

Why It Matters

Skipping this step can lead to puckering, uneven seams, and bulk that ruins the shape of your project. Mastering clipping and notching means:
✅ Smoother seams.
✅ More professional results.
✅ Less frustration during finishing!

Want to Learn More?

Perfecting your seam finishes doesn’t stop here! Check out these helpful sewing tutorials from Sewing Bee University:

• How to Sew an Opening Closed: For neat, invisible closures.

• Tricks for Sewing Curves: A lifesaver for tricky patterns!

Or, try a beginner-friendly sewing class on Craftsy or Creativebug to hone your skills.

Pro Tip: Practice Makes Perfect!

Grab some fabric scraps and practice clipping and notching on curves and corners before tackling your next project. Bonus: it’s oddly satisfying!

By adding clipping and notching to your sewing arsenal, you’ll be well on your way to creating projects that look and feel seamless (literally!). Ready to clip like a pro? Let’s get snipping!

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