Finish seams for everyday use
A seam finish should suit the fabric and the amount of wear it will receive. Zigzagging a raw edge is useful for many stable wovens; a French seam can enclose the edges of lightweight fabrics. Bulkier fabrics may need a different finish.
Press each seam as you sew rather than leaving all pressing until the end. Test heat and steam on a scrap first. Trim only after you have checked the fit, and secure thread ends at stress points. After the first wash, inspect the garment for loose stitching.