By Naomi Baker

Using seam sealants in your sewing can help you achieve professional-looking results.

How soft and flexible is the finished edge?
This is important if the dried sealant is next to bare skin, where it may be scratchy. Even the smallest sealant amount can be irritating as the garment is worn. Fray Stop, No-Fray and Stop Fray remain soft and flexible after drying, but test for skin irritability.

Does the sealant stain the fabric?
Although all sealants dry clear on a thread chain, they may slightly change some fabric colors, so take care in application. Fray Stop, a thicker liquid, doesn't soak through the fabric but "beads" on top which prevents excess staining and wicking on the fabric.

How fast does it dry?
Fray Stop and No-Fray dry quickly--almost instantly when using a light amount and on a lightweight fabric or thread chain; other sealants may take 10 minutes or more to dry. However, the drying process may be quickened by using a hair dryer or pressing with an iron.

Is the finished product washable and dry-cleanable?
All sealants are permanent when washed and dry-cleaned except for No-Fray, which will dissolve in dry cleaning.

• When opening the bottle for the first time, poke the tip with a pin to open, rather than snipping with scissors. After using, insert a large head pin in the opening to prevent the sealant from sealing over or leaking into the cap.
  
  
• Always test for stiffness or discoloration by dabbing sealant on a fabric swatch or a seamline before applying it to your project.
  
  
• To prevent accidental staining, make sure damp treated areas don't touch any untreated areas while drying.
  
  
• Use sealants sparingly. Because some are more liquid than others and flow quickly out of the bottle, it's advisable to pour them into a needlenose applicator or to pour a small amount onto a plastic lid and use a pin, needle or toothpick to apply it. If a small amount remains on the lid, it easily can be peeled away after drying.
  
  
• Keep the bottle capped and store in a self-sealing bag to prevent evaporation--most sealants contain ethyl alcohol.
  
  
• Most sealants are flammable, so keep them away from sparks and open flames.
  
  
• To remove an unwanted sealant drip, dab a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and rub it on the drip to dissolve the sealant, working while it's still wet, if possible. Be sure to test the fabric first in an inconspicuous place for color change or formation of a ring. The alcohol evaporates quickly and usually doesn't stain. If the drip has dried, continue to blot and rub the spot until it's removed. Because most sealants are a nylon/plastic in an alcohol base, alcohol is the only solvent that will chemically break down the plastic and it's important to give it time to work. If the stain can't be removed with alcohol,use creativity to cover it with an appliqué, another fabric layer, flatlocking, etc.
  
  
• Seam sealants have a wide variety of uses, including stopping hosiery runs. Tuck a bottle in your purse or travel bag for emergencies. Dab a drop onto ready-to-wear garments' button threads to prevent losing buttons. Apply it sparingly between buttonhole stitches and let it dry before cutting them open.