How to sew pleats

[SmilieFace]

So, after sewing pleats in a couple garments recently, I'm beginning to think I might be sewing them incorrectly. (Pleats like those in Simplicity 2594) What I do is follow the fold lines in the pattern, then stitch in place along the line -- usually a couple inches. However, while examining some ready-to-wear clothing, I noticed that the pleats don't have any visible stitching. Can someone tell me how I'm supposed to sew pleats?

[MartySews2]

SmilieFace, I made this top last year. I sewed the pleats at the top within the seam allowance & pressed firmly. Of course, I used a rayon/lycra top so the pleats were not crisp. I didn't have enough stretch in my top for it to fit properly. Almost like little tucks. I do have the pattern number labeled wrong. Hope this helps.

Simplicity 2814.jpg (24.27 KB) Viewed 2089 times

Simplicity 2814 back view.jpg (24.88 KB) Viewed 2115 times

Marty

[SmilieFace]

Hmmm...I guess I have been sewing pleats wrong all this time. I will have to only sew in the seam allowance from now on and press.

Marty, your shirt looks better than mine. I found the pattern ran a little big, and as a result, my drape is too big. I wore it the other day to work, though, and got compliments. When I told people I made it, some said it looked 1/2 a size too big and others said it fit perfectly. Different strokes for different folks, I guess.

[Liz92B]

You can stitch them any way you like - depends on the look you're after.
If you top-stitch, you'll get a more 'tailored' look; the not-stitched ones offer a softer fullness ...