Ah, the wonderful world of stitching! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, chances are you have heard of different types of stitches. From simple running stitches to more intricate embroidery and quilting stitches, there is something for everyone in this craft.
Let’s look at some of the most popular stitches out there today so you can stitch confidently.
How a Stitch Works
First, let’s take a look at how a stitch works. All stitches are made up of two steps:
Pulling the Thread Through the Fabric to Create a Loop
This is called a single stitch. It’s the most basic type of stitch used in almost all sewing projects. The single stitch is achieved by pulling your needle and thread through the fabric and creating a small loop on the backside.
Tying That Loop Off with Another Stitch
This is called a double stitch. A double stitch comprises two passes, pulling your needle and thread through the fabric twice, creating two loops on the backside. This method gives you more security when stitching because there are two points of connection instead of one.
Types of Stitches
Now that you understand how a stitch works, let’s look at some types of stitches. The type of stitch you use will determine how strong your seams are and the aesthetic effect it has on your project.
Running Stitch
One of the simplest types of stitching is known as running stitch (also called straight stitch). This type of stitch is used for most hand-sewing projects and generally consists only of one line of parallel stitches. Running stitches can join two pieces of fabric together or gather the fabric into pleats. While this type of stitch isn’t as strong as other stitching, it’s great for decorative embroidery.
Backstitch
The backstitch is one of the most vital hand-sewing stitches and is used when more durability is needed. This stitch involves passing the needle back through a loop to create two parallel lines of stitches. The backstitch allows you to go over a section again, making it perfect for seams that require extra strength, like buttonholes.
Cross Stitch
A cross stitch (also known as counted thread) is an embroidery stitch where interlocking threads create an X-shaped pattern on fabric. Because this stitch requires counting threads, it’s best used on even-weave fabrics like linen or Aida cloth. Cross stitch is often used to create intricate and detailed designs, making it perfect for needlepoint projects.
Quilting Stitch
Quilting stitches are a type of decorative stitching that involve multiple parallel lines of stitches on top of the fabric. This type of stitch is usually used in quilts because it adds texture and interest to the project and provides extra warmth in cold weather. Quilting stitches can be small and delicate or large and chunky, depending on what look you’re going for.
Buttonhole/Ladder stitch
The buttonhole stitch is a type of hand-sewing stitch that’s used to make buttonholes or reinforce edges. A ladder stitch (also called an invisible/blind stitch) is similar to the buttonhole stitch, but it’s less conspicuous because the stitches are not visible on the right side of the fabric. This stitching is excellent for hems and seams that you want to remain hidden.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many different types of stitches out there. From basic running stitches to more intricate embroidery and quilting stitches, there is something for everyone in this craft. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to master these stitches and create beautiful projects with them.
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