An Easier Way to Sew a Placket: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

When I first started sewing plackets, I found the standard method a bit cumbersome. So, I developed my own easier way, which I prefer over the version in the Banksia instruction booklet. I use it often and wanted to share it because I think you’ll like it too!


Ready? The key to plackets is taking it slow and preparing properly. If you haven’t done basting yet, check last week’s post.



Step 1: Iron lightweight fusible interfacing to the wrong side of the fabric for stability.



Step 2: Fold placket pieces in half with right sides together and sew 5/8″ from the top edge.



Step 3: Trim and notch the seam allowance, then turn right side out and press.



Step 4: Place placket pieces on the front fabric’s right side, aligning folded edges with sides and raw edges with the center cut edge inside basting. Sew 5/8″ from the raw edge along basting stitches, stopping at horizontal basting about 5/8″ from bottom.



Step 5: Push plackets to the wrong side, including the seam allowance triangle. On the right side, ensure the right placket overlaps the left and pin for stability.



Step 6: On the wrong side, pin both placket bottoms to the seam allowance triangle and sew along the horizontal basting line. Folding the top horizontally can help.



Step 7: Finish raw edges with an overlocker, zig-zag stitch, bias tape, or by folding and topstitching.



Step 8: Optionally, topstitch around the outside edge after pressing to keep seam allowance flat and add a neat finish.



Finally, add buttons and buttonholes. You’re done!



LOOKING FOR MORE BANKSIA POSTS?


Preparation


Sewing: Darts & Seams


Sewing: Basting & Placket prep


Sewing: Collars


Sewing: Collarless version


Sewing: How to sew a placket


Sewing: How to sew a placket the easier way (this post!)


Sewing: How to sew a faux placket


Sewing: Leaving the placket off


Sewing: Flat sleeve insertion


Sewing: Sleeveless version


Sewing: Long-sleeved version


Sewing: Hemming


Sewing: Dress version


Sewing: Jersey version



Some other tutorials you might like to check out:


Learn essential pattern alterations to customize your sewing projects:



– How to turn the pattern into a dress


– Altering bust dart height


– Bust adjustments (FBA and SBA)


– Lengthen the sleeves


– Drafting different collars


– Alter the pattern for stretch fabrics



DON’T HAVE THE PATTERN YET?


Order Banksia today in Sizes XS-XL




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