Hand Stitches

Lesson card: hand stitches

• Tacking (basting): long temporary stitches that hold pieces together before sewing and fitting, removed afterwards.
• Running stitch: the simplest stitch, for gathering by hand and light seams.
• Backstitch: the strongest hand stitch. From the front it looks like a machine line, so it is used for repairs and sturdy seams.
• Slip stitch (ladder stitch): joins two folded edges invisibly, for closing linings and turning gaps.
• Herringbone stitch (catch stitch): a row of crossed Xs. It has some give, so it suits hems on thick and stretchy fabrics.
• Whip stitch and blanket stitch: the first wraps a raw edge to stop fraying; the second decorates and protects the edges of felt and blankets.
• The invisible hem secret: pick up only one or two threads from the right side, and never pull the thread tight.