How You Can Use Different Stitches On Your Next Sewing Project

Source: https://cdn.apartmenttherapy.info/

For many years people have been hand sewing. This technique is where they use their hand with a needle and thread but with modern sewing machines, this has simplified many sewing projects. When buying a sewing machine it’s best to buy one with a wide range of stitch options. You can read reviews on the best sewing machines for your stitch and sew project to help you figure out the best options available. There are different sewing machine models that you can buy that offer a variety of stitches from the basic stitches to more complex ones.

Sewing machines with more than 12 stitch options will not only be great for your next sewing project but they will also allow you to be creative. Understand that each stitch has its own use and if you are not able to figure out how and when to use the stitches or have ever wondered what all those stitches are for, below is a guide on how you can use different stitches on your next sewing project.

 

Running Stitch

The running stitch or straight stitch is among the basic hand sewing stitches used in construction sewing. Although there are many variations the stitch usually runs straight along the fabric leaving some space between stitches on each side of the fabric interlocking the threads at regular intervals. The stitches are strong and used for mending, tucking and gathering.

 

Basting Stitch

The basting stitch is a longer form of the running stitch. It is used for different sewing projects with either lightweight and heavyweight wools or thread.

 

Cross-Stitch

The cross-stitch which is also called catch stitch is used mostly for decoration. As the name suggests, the stitch is X-shaped forming an arrangement similar to that of tiles. The stitch can be used to finish hems or tack facing invisibly. If you want stitches that are tidier and more hidden you can also use the slip stitch for hems and other finishes.

 

Backstitch

The backstitch is similar to the running stitch, though the thread normally overlaps each other on the back of the garment forming invisible spacing between stitches.

 

Whipstitch

The whipstitch which is mostly used to fix patches is a great option for wrapping the edge of a fabric. The stitch can be used on either one or more pieces of fabric.

 

Zigzag stitch

The zigzag stitch is used to enclose raw edges for seam finishing. It forms a continuous row of stitches resembling the letter W connected to each other. You can adjust the length and width of a zigzag stitch depending on how you want the W formation to look.

 

Buttonhole Stitch

Usually used for sewing buttonholes, the buttonhole stitch can be done either by hand or machine.

If you are a beginner, start by learning the basic sewing stitches and try out smaller and simple sewing projects. You can either go DIY way or find a sewing instructor. In case you are not sure how to use a particular stitch, start by experimenting so as to determine which stitch works best for which fabric. Once you are familiar with the basic stitch options move to the complex ones.

Popular on True Activist