What Is A Seam Gauge?

Whether you're measuring quilt blocks, pleats or buttonholes, sometimes you have to take the same measurement more than once. And when you do, you don't want to have to find your place on the ruler each time—you just want to glance and go! That's where a seam gauge comes in. From hemming to pleating, this simple tool makes taking repeated measurements a breeze. Looking for a high-quality seam gauge to add to your toolkit? Shop Seam Gauges at WAWAK to find your new favorite measuring tool.

A seam gauge is a type of sewing ruler designed for efficiently taking short, repeated measurements.

WHAT IS A SEAM GAUGE?

A seam gauge (also known as a sewing gauge) is a type of sewing ruler designed for quick and convenient measuring—especially where short, repeated measurements are concerned. They come in a variety of styles, but the most common variant is the classic 6-inch metal seam gauge featuring a sliding marker, notches at each inch for easy marking, and a point turner on one end. The sliding marker allows you to mark your place on the ruler itself, making it easy to take repeated measurements quickly or transfer a measurement with ease.

What Is A Seam Gauge Used For?

As you can probably imagine, this handy tool proves indispensable in many sewing situations. Here are a few common uses for sewing gauges:

Making Buttonholes

Use a seam gauge to measure buttons, determine buttonhole size, and efficiently mark the start and end point of each buttonhole. 

Determining Spacing

Use a seam gauge to determine the placement or size of buttons, grommets, pleats, gathers, smocking, shirring and more. While a standard seam gauge is a good option for this purpose, an Expanding Sewing Gauge offers an even more convenient way to accurately measure equal intervals between two points.

Measuring Hems, Waistbands & More

Easily check hems, waistbands, straps, bias tape and other fabric strips for a consistent width with a seam gauge.

Maintaining an Even Seam Allowance

Similarly, try using a small seam gauge while pattern drafting, fabric marking and even while sewing to help maintain a consistent, even seam allowance across an entire project. 

Quilting

From creating symmetrical quilt blocks to maintaining a perfect ¼” seam allowance, quilting is all about precision; a seam gauge is great to have on hand for a range of quilting applications.

Other Uses

Many sewing gauges also serve as a sewing multitool, offering a few special features for uses beyond measuring. Standard 6-inch metal sewing gauges, like this WAWAK Heavy-Duty Seam Gauge, often feature an angled point turner on one end to help turn out crisp corners. Many seam gauges can also be used as a compass to draw perfect circles or arcs. Some sewing gauges can be used as a T-square to draw right angles, like this 5-In-1 Sliding Gauge, or feature a button gauge for sewing buttons on by hand. 

Find High-Quality Seam Gauges at WAWAK

No matter which style of sewing gauge you add to your sewing toolkit, you’ll be glad to have it on hand. Shop WAWAK's selection of seam gauges to save time without sacrificing accuracy in your sewing projects. Happy sewing!

SHOP SEAM GAUGES AT WAWAK