Must Know Basic Key Stitches in Hand Sewing

Sewing machines aren't always necessary in doing a number of projects that are small. Setting up a working area would make the project more stressful than it should be. So it is always handy to possess hand sewing skills for small projects.

People usually think that hand sewing only calls for a needle and thread. However, they are wrong. In hand sewing, you should always be armed with a number of tools in order to create or repair a number of items.

Aside from these tools, there are various stitches that you could use in creating and mending a variety of material. However, you only need to know and master two key stitches for use in simple projects. These are the running and the backstitch, each of which has its own use and benefits.

Known to be useful for seams and gathering is the running stitch, one of the most basic stitches. If you lengthen the stitches, then you will produce a tacking stitch or a basting stitch. This type of stitch is used in holding pieces of fabric together. This prevents them from moving out of their places.

Aside from holding pieces together, running stitches have a decorative function especially when used on felt. To attain a decorative function, a thick thread or wool is needed when making the stitches. The thickness of these types of thread compliments the texture-rich fabric. You can use a complementary color in bringing a decorative touch.

Knowing its function would be worthless without knowing how to make such a stitch. In making a running stitch, you have to fasten the thread. Then, the needle is run up and down through the cloth. Make sure that equal spaces are produced to give way to equal stitches.

Making backstitches are a hand sewing skill that everyone should possess since this type of stitch provides the firmest hold for the materials. When you look on the top side of the fabric, you will see that the back stitch resembles the top side of the stitches made by a sewing machine. However, the rear side of the back stitch appears different since they are overlapping. The stitches on the rear side are called stem stitches that resembles embroidery.

There are a lot of stitches that can be done by hand sewing. However, you only need to master two key stitches in creating and repairing projects: the running and the backstitch.