Thoughts on "fray check"?

[LiLStar]

I bought some fray check to put on the unfinished edges of woven fabrics. I've used it, but haven't really put it to the test (I don't dare wash the dress I made for dd until she's had her birthday pics in it!!!) Will this stuff really prevent the fabric from unraveling even after lots of wear and washing? I don't really like the idea of using a chemical on clothes (ugh, especially with all those warnings all over it) but the only other thing I can do is is fold over the edges twice and stitch it closed before putting the pieces together.. that takes FOREVER (*whine*) Do I just need to get a serger?

[U2can]

I've used Fray Check many times for many applications & never had any problem with fraying after. I especially LOVE it for those tiny holes in t-shirts - I used to keep a bottle on top of my washer/dryer for when I'd notice a snag. I also used it when cutting ribbons.

If you happen to get it where you don't want it, rubbing alcohol will usually remove it.

[LiLStar]

Cool! Well glad to know it works well I was veerrry suspicious. With the dress, I applied it after I was done..very tedious. Woulda taken 5 minutes for me to just put it on the edges of every piece after cutting the fabric, before sewing.

[frogger]

what about using hem tape?

[rubelin]

if you really want the edges finished and don't want to do french seams or felled seams (which really are the best for kids clothes, since they make the seams so much stronger), then I'd get a serger. I like fray check for small things or places where a stitched line wouldn't work well, but it is tedious and takes way longer than just adding an extra seam line Plus it's kinda crispy until you wash it (and sometimes after)

I have also used "Seams Great" which is a seam tape made out of sheer, stretchy tricot. You sort of wrap it around the raw edge and stitch in place, like binding. It's soft but will get crispy if you iron it, 'cause it's polyester.