Alternate pojagi patchwork seam tutorial

The best way to sew reversible patchwork is with the Simple Pojagi Seam method. But sometimes the seams are difficult to press.

If you are having trouble pressing the seams, then this alternate technique is the one to use.

Be sure to read all the instructions carefully because it is different from any other seam you have seen.

Tutorial

1. Baste

To begin, lay the two pieces next to each other, as they will be in the finished project. Then slide one over the other so that they slightly overlap (about 1/8 – 3/16″). It doesn’t matter which one is on top.

If you are joining long pieces, it will be helpful to pin together to hold while you are stitching.

With a long machine stitch, baste the two pieces together. After the basting, they should still lay flat, or the finished piece will not be flat.

2. Fold & Press

Fold the bottom piece over the top piece and then press.

Here is the piece pressed and ready to go. The fold-over at the top is just under 1/4″. Don’t worry about exact measurements. Just try to keep it straight and flat.

3. Stitch

Sew with a regular stitch length just past the edge of the folded-over fabric. The seam allowance will be just over 1/4″. Approximate is good enough. Usually the edge of the presser foot is a good guide.

4. Open & Press

Press the seam open. The seam allowance is there, but it is loose.

5. Stitch

Topstitch along the edge of the seam to keep it down. You can use an edge stitching foot if it is easier, but with practice you can just eyeball it.

On one side of the finished piece, you see two stitching lines. On the other side, you only see one stitching line, but the seam is finished on both sides. These sides are interchangeable. All the raw edges are tucked away inside.

More info

Check out my Reversible Patchwork page for more information about reversible patchwork including other tutorials, projects to use the techniques and detailed patterns.