Abstract: A system for the edge-parallel sewing of a workpiece, consisting of a plurality of layers, together to form a seam, e.g. in the production of trouser legs, pockets, shirts and the like, comprises a workpiece guide in the region of the needle path and formed with separators interposed between the layers, and a drag-clamping device which engages a portion of the stack of fabric layers remote from the incipient stitching operation to apply a stretching or drag force thereto. According to the invention, a retracting device is provided which, upon approach of the drag clamp to the stitching location, withdraws the guide device out of the path of the clamp.

Abstract: A workpiece guide device for sewing machines, especially for the edge-true seaming of at least two workpiece (fabric) pieces, e.g. trouser parts, on a sewing machine, comprises a vertically disposed linear-guide element on the sewing table for alignment of the edges of the pieces to be guided horizontally, and a three-plate stack extending generally transversely to the plane of the linear edge guide and mounted upon a slide for movement toward and away from the stitching location. Preferably clamping means is provided to engage the fabric pieces between the plates.