If you haven't already checked out our tutorial on how to create a basic latex seam, please visit that article and then come back. If you've already mastered the basics, read on...

Step 1: Apply the glue

We covered this in the basic latex seam tutorial, but again - apply glue a little more than 1/4 inch wide on both pieces of latex sheeting that you are adhering. Don't apply a ton of glue - less is more, just make sure that you cover the entire area and don't leave any gaps.

Step 2: Attach the seam

Pick up one side of the seam and very carefully attach about a 1/2 inch point to the other seam. Line them up perfectly. When you do this pull the top layer back over your hand so that it's not touching the bottom layer. See the video for clarification.

Very slowly and carefully start adhering the top layer to the bottom layer using a rolling motion of your finger. As you begin to move down the seam, you will find that you must stretch the top layer of sheeting to continue keeping your seam on track. Here comes the hard part: you need to use your thumb and index finger or middle finger of the hand holding the bottom layer of sheeting to stretch the bottom layer the same amount that you are stretch the top layer. See video for clarfication.

This takes a lot of practice and comes more naturally for some than others. I cannot stress enough that you must be very gentle and "feel" the layers of latex, how much they are stretching, etc. You do not need to pull hard or press hard with your finger. It's a very subtle application of stretch and pressure.

Step 3: Roll the seam

Most likely you'll have some amount of "ripples" or a wavey-like appearance in your seam. This is not unusual for a first attempt. As you practice you will find that you get better, but you may never get a curved seam 100% smooth. That's ok - even the pros don't get it perfect. If you're producing a garmet you'll find that as long as it is close the imperfections will not be noticable once wearing the garmet.

If you're happy with how your seam came out, take your roller and with strong pressure - for some people as much as you can muster - and roll across the seam diagonally. This serves two purposes: to encourage the glue to form a strong bond with the latex, and to force out any air bubbles that may have gotten into your seam during the process.

Step 4: Curing time

Besides bringing the two layers together, this is the hardest part :) It will take a minimum of 24 hours for your seam to cure completely. Try to avoid applying any stress to the seam for 1 day - then enjoy your new creation! Check back with us for more tutorials on advanced topics such as creating latex ruffles, appliques, and how to add zippers to your latex garmets.

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