Underlining, Why do we do it?

There are so many reasons to underline a garment. I like the stability it gives to the fashion fabric. I like that it reduces show through and a slip is then not required. On particularly warm days this is good. There are many fabrics that can be used and they are well explained in the following articles. There are also newly developed sheer wicking fabrics that might work. So many choices. I tend to mostly used a lightweight batiste, but as these articles explain, there are many more options. 

Threads article by Sandra Betzina.
http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/4999/understanding-underlining


A couture underlining application by the Sewing Divas.
http://thesewingdivas.wordpress.com/2006/12/29/the-beauty-of-underlining/

And this interesting application of underlining that incorporates a Hong-Kong finish from Laura.
http://laurasewingroom.blogspot.com/2008/04/underlining-and-hong-kong-seam.html

For those who prefer a more visual tutorial presentation check out Gerties new blog for better sewing. Just go to the search box and enter "underlining."
http://www.blogforbettersewing.com/

And, of course, Tasia over at Sewholic patterns has some great photo's and explanations of the underlining process. Again, just type "underlining' in the search box.
http://sewaholic.net/ 

Gratuity moment: cucumbers, lots of cucumbers, specifics to follow at Kitchen Chronicles this week