Ever go to a tailor and have no idea what word(s) she/he just said? Well, we are here to bring a little education into the wide world of tailoring with a little terminology talk. Check back every week for a new term.

Next up: Gathering

Simply put, gathering is a method of bunching fabric and sewing it in place. Gathering is often done to create volume or ruffles on a garment.  Usually, the more fabric you use when you gather in a particular spot, the bigger your ruffles or the poofier your garment will be.

Here is an example of fabric that has been gathered.

This skirt has been gathered at the waist. Look how full it is as a result!

If done on a small scale, gathering also creates a a nice aesthetic detail like you see on the seams below.

*Images courtesy of The Coletterie, Style Tips 101, and Prudent Baby