Learning to sew corners can greatly improve your sewing skills, whether you’re making a quilt, clothing or any fabric item with a rectangular shape. This step-by-step guide will teach you how to sew perfect corners every time.

1. Gather your materials: You’ll need fabric, scissors, pins, a seam ripper, a sewing machine and a needle/thread for hand stitching.

2. Cut the fabric: Cut your fabric pieces according to your pattern or project’s dimensions. Make sure the edges are straight and neat.

3. Prepare the fabric: If needed, press the fabric with an iron to remove any wrinkles or folds.

4. Align the edges: Pin together the edges of the fabric you want to sew. Ensure they are aligned perfectly without any gaps or overlaps.

5. Begin sewing: Set your sewing machine stitch length and tension according to your project’s requirements.

6. Sew up to 1/4 inch before the corner: Sew along one edge of the fabric until you reach approximately 1/4 inch before reaching the corner.

7. Pivot at the corner: Keep the needle down in the fabric, lift the presser foot and pivot the fabric 90 degrees so that you’re now lined up with the next edge to sew. Lower the presser foot back down.

8. Sew along next edge: Continue sewing along the second edge until you reach another corner, again stopping 1/4 inch before you reach it.

9. Repeat pivoting process: Follow steps 7-8 for all remaining corners of your project.

10. Backstitch at end: When reaching your starting point, make sure to backstitch a few times to secure your stitches before cutting your thread.

11. Clip threads and remove pins: Use scissors to trim off any excess threads and remove any remaining pins from your project.

12. Press seams open: Iron the seams open to create a smooth, flat finish.

13. Trim excess fabric: If there’s any excess fabric beyond the seam allowance, trim it down carefully using your scissors. This will help reduce bulk when turning the fabric right side out.

14. Turn fabric right side out: Turn your project inside out, so that the seams are hidden and the fabric’s right sides are facing outward.

15. Finishing touches: Complete any additional steps required for your project, such as adding fastenings or other decorative elements.

Now you know how to sew corners with precision and professionalism. Use these step-by-step instructions to create beautiful, well-constructed projects that showcase your newfound sewing skills.