Tips Regarding Trim Application:

  • Each layer of trim should be applied separately.  For example, you might sew a layer of bias trim to your sleeve first.  Then you could center a layer of ric rac.
  • For trimming Pockets: I strongly suggest that you face or line your pocket first, before applying trim.  When you begin sewing on trim, be sure to allow the trim to extend and inch or so beyond the finished edges of the pocket.  You will fold this trim securely under the edges as you sew the pocket to the garment.  You will also notice in the photos below that several of the pockets have “forward” facings.  This is a simple technique where you use a facing of a contrasting fabric.  The facing is sewn right side of facing to wrong side of pocket then turned forward and under…..
  • Hoods should be trimmed before lining.  I like to line my hoods.
  • When attaching trim to curved edges ALWAYS sew the longer curve first.  On a pocket, for example, you would sew the curve farther away from the pocket curved edge.  You would then gently steam or iron the trim to allow  the “inner edge” of the trim to “shrink into the curve.”  Pin that inner smaller curve then sew.  This is illustrated in the sewing instructions for Friday’s Kuspuk pattern.
  • Consider making your own bias trim of coordinating or contrasting fabrics.  The options are limitless and cost effective when you do this.  Many of the following examples include “home made” bias trims.  I will use a combination of home made bias trim and cross grain trim.  For the “cross grain” trim I use a quilting ruler and rotary cutter.  I cut strips perfectly perpendicular to the selvage.  If I want a finished 1″ trim, I cut a 2″ strip.  For a skirted Kuspuk, I will cut two cross grain strips for the flounce.  I will cut an extra strip or two for additional sleeve and cuff trim.  I cut bias trim for curved areas of the garment such as the pocket and hood.  (I hope to post videos of these techniques soon.)

 

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The trim on this Kuspuk features a contrasting fabric and custom died rick rick.  The rick rack was given to me by a friend, a perfect match for the batik!
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    This trim was layered over “home made” coordinating bias trim. I believe this trim is a Renaissance Ribbons trim.

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    This photograph does not do this Kuspuk justice. I embellished this kuspuk with “home made” bias trim too. The garment is monochromatic and lovely.
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    This photo is a little different than the others! It features a Kuspuk in size 30 next to a size 2! I constructed these garments when I was testing the final draft of my pattern. I did not know anyone in a size 2 so I kept it rather simple.
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    Thanks Gen for letting me include this photo! Gen used a self made yellow bias and beautiful blue trim.
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    Thanks Lee for letting me use this as an example! Lee chose to use the pocket facing as a forward facing in a contrasting purple design. She then sewed a contrasting large cotton rick rack trim using several rows of stitches to secure the trim. This is accomplished by stitching down the center of the trim then on each side of the trim.
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    This photo was posted to my Jodie’s Sewing Studio Facebook page by Kris after a Kuspuk Class. The colors are fabulous! I think we all need at least 5!
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    Here is a close up of one of Kris’s Kuspuks. She applied a home made coordinating bias. She then attached a wide cotton rick rack trim and finished by attaching a decorative trim. The effect is stunning.
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    Gen brought this whimsical fabric into the Kuspuk class! (I used the same fabric in another kuspuk photographed here….) She applied a purple home made bias trim. She then sewed an orange cotton rick rack to the center. The artful braid was applied last, providing this interesting affect. The results are stunning!
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    I fashioned this Kuspuk for my mother-in-law. She looks fabulous in the vivid colors. I used the pocket facing as a contrasting forward facing. I then attached a sparkly braid to dress up the garment. It’s quite beautiful. I want to caution you regarding “sparkly” or metallic braids though. The “metal” in the “metallic” is plastic and is fragile. Use with caution and feel free to contact me with questions.
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    On this child’s garment I used camouflage Offray ribbon. I lined the hood with a camouflage fabric. The garment is made out of corduroy.
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    This 2T Kuspuk is trimmed with simple packaged medium sized Rick Rack. I lined the hood and pocket with Minky, a super soft fabric popular with quilters. I highly recommend this! Children love the feel of the fabric.