What do darts do?
Why are they there and where should they be? Darts are often the first thing you’re asked to stitch on a pattern and can be a tricky starting point. The main aim of a dart is to remove fullness to create shape. Normally towards the bust or the waist. They point towards the fullest part of the body, taking in excess fabric at the narrowest part. When taking in the fullness on the back of a garment or for the fuller bust distributing the fullness into more than one dart can give a smoother overall look. In essence, they’re a handy technique to use.
Types of Dart
Darts fall into two main types.
- A single Dart. Used at the waistline or bust
- A double ended or fish eye dart. Used in the front and back of dresses and shirts to give shaping to both the bust and waist in one swoop.
Stitching a smooth dart
The main aim when stitching darts is to give a smooth finish at the point rather than a pokey point. Well. unless you’re going for the John Paul Gautier look. Each to their own. To stop the end of your dart poking out you need to create a soft curve when stitching your dart. Be it for the bust or the waist, none of us are made of angles. We all have curves. In the video I’m going to go through how I stitch darts to avoid the poke and give the dart a smooth finish. This isn’t often something that happens straight away. Give yourself a break if you don’t get this first time. Once you get to grips with where the fabric and stitch line go it makes more sense. Let’s have a go…
