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How to Sew by Hand: Seven Basic Stitches
Hand sewing is a useful skill that many people lack, but it’s easy to learn. Learning how to sew by hand will empower you to make basic clothing alterations, fix torn fabric, and tackle your own hand-sewn craft projects.
Our tutorial provides a photographic step-by-step process to implement the seven most common basic hand stitches. You’ll also learn when and where to use them.
To demonstrate the stitches, this tutorial uses six-strand embroidery floss for each stitch. If you are using regular thread, double up the thread for maximum strength.
Tools Needed
To sew by hand, you will need thread or embroidery floss, a hand sewing needle, fabric, sharp scissors, and a needle threader (if necessary). The seven basic hand stitches we will learn are: running baste stitch, running stitch, catch stitch, blanket stitch, whip stitch, slip/ladder stitch, and back stitch.
Running Baste Stitch:
1. Start by knotting the end of your thread.
2. Insert your needle into the fabric, coming up from the back.
3. Take a small stitch forward and then insert the needle back into the fabric, creating a loose loop.
4. Continue stitching in this manner, making evenly spaced loops until you reach the end of your desired line.
5. Knot the thread at the end to secure your stitches.
The running baste stitch is useful to temporarily hold two pieces of fabric together. It can also be used for hemming clothes, hand-gathering pleats, or sewing basic seams. The running stitch creates a stronger seam than the running baste stitch, but the latter is faster to sew.
First, thread your needle through the loop, and tie a knot at the end of your thread.
Place the needle tip on the fabric’s wrong side and push it through at the starting point. Pull the thread until the knot reaches the back of the fabric.
Press the needle tip through the fabric, about 1/2″ to 3/4″ away from the edge. Do not pull it out completely.
Keeping the needle in the fabric, push it forward until the tip reaches the same distance of 1/2″ to 3/4″. Press the tip upward through the fabric at that point.
Pull the needle and thread through the fabric.
Pull the thread taut.
Next, press the needle tip through the fabric 1/2″ to 3/4” away from the last stitch, and repeat the basting stitch.
Continue working in this wide, even, and straight-basting stitch.
How to Sew: Running Stitch
The running stitch is one of the most basic and versatile hand sewing stitches. It is easy to learn and can be used for a variety of sewing projects. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the steps to sew a running stitch.
To start, thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. Then, bring the needle up through the fabric from the backside to the front side, leaving a small tail of thread on the backside.
Next, insert the needle into the fabric a short distance away from the starting point, and bring it back up through the fabric. Repeat this motion, creating evenly spaced stitches along your sewing line. Remember to keep your stitches the same length and tension to ensure a neat and professional finish.
When you reach the end of your sewing line, tie off the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread.
The running stitch is commonly used for basting, gathering fabric, and for securing fabric layers together temporarily. It is also a great stitch to use when sewing curves or adding decorative stitching to your projects.
In conclusion, the running stitch is a versatile and essential hand sewing stitch that every sewer should know. It is easy to learn and can be used for a variety of sewing projects. By mastering the running stitch, you will be able to create professional-looking garments and crafts.
Now that you know how to sew a running stitch, you can start incorporating it into your sewing projects. Happy sewing!
The straight running stitch is fundamental. Adjust the stitch length to suit the project, as shorter stitches create a stronger seam.
First, thread the needle and knot the end. Then, insert the needle through the fabric from the wrong side and bring it up to the top until the knot touches the back.
Next, create the stitches by moving the needle above and below the fabric, using the same method as the running baste stitch.
Since the running stitch is small, you can weave two or three stitches onto the needle before threading it through the fabric.
Working in two- or three-stitch needle lengths is an efficient way to sew a straight line.
Pull the needle and thread through the fabric, and pull it taut before moving on to the next set of stitches.
Sewing a catch stitch is an essential technique that every sewist should master. Catch stitching is a strong stitch commonly used to secure hems and seam allowances, especially on fabrics that tend to fray or stretch. It is a versatile stitch that can also be used for decorative purposes.
To sew a catch stitch, you will need a hand sewing needle and thread. Start by bringing the needle up through the wrong side of the fabric, near the edge of the hem or seam allowance. Then, take a small stitch on the right side of the fabric, about 1/4 inch away from the starting point.
Next, bring the needle back to the wrong side of the fabric, crossing over the original stitch. Take another small stitch on the right side of the fabric, again about 1/4 inch away from the previous stitch. Repeat this process along the entire length of the hem or seam allowance, making sure to keep your stitches evenly spaced.
When you reach the end, secure the thread by taking a couple of backstitches on the wrong side of the fabric. Trim any excess thread.
The catch stitch is a great option for finishing hems and seam allowances because it provides a strong and flexible finish. It helps to prevent fraying and ensures that the garment or project will withstand regular wear and tear.
In conclusion, mastering the catch stitch is an important skill for anyone interested in sewing. It is a versatile stitch that can be used for both functional and decorative purposes. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily sew a catch stitch and elevate the quality of your sewing projects.
STITCH USE: The catch stitch is ideal for a blind hem or invisible seam. This stitch gives the hem some flexibility. It is also handy when attaching heavy lining fabrics to the hemline, like curtain linings.
First, thread the needle and knot the thread at the end. Press the tip of your needle on the opposite fold of your fabric hem, and bring the needle up through to the top of the fabric until the knot touches the back. Your needle and thread should be on the left side.
Place the needle about 1/2″ to 3/4″ above the exit thread and move it 1/8” to the right. Press the needle down through the fabric and aim it 1/8” to the left.
Pull the needle and thread up to the top of your fabric, and pull the thread taut.
To create the signature catch stitch, position your needle 1/2″ to the right of the initial thread exit. Press the needle downwards, through the fabric, then bring it back up about 1/8″ to the right.
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Next, pull the needle and thread through, and tighten the thread.
It’s helpful to remember that the “top” of the stitch is a right-to-left stitch, and the “bottom” is left-to-right.
Continue until you’ve completed the length of your catch stitch seam.
How to Sew: Blanket Stitch
Sewing is a craft that many people enjoy. One popular stitch that you can learn is the blanket stitch. This stitch is commonly used to finish edges or applique fabric pieces onto a project. If you’d like to learn how to do the blanket stitch, follow these simple steps:
1. Start by threading your needle. Choose a thread color that matches or complements your fabric.
2. Bring the needle up through the fabric from the backside, close to the edge. Leave a small tail of thread on the underside.
3. Take a small stitch forward, about 1/4 inch, along the edge of the fabric. Bring the needle back down through the fabric at the same point you came up.
4. Next, bring the needle up through the fabric about 1/4 inch forward and to the right of the first stitch. Make sure the needle is angled towards the left.
5. Pass the needle under the thread between the first and second stitch, creating a loop. Pull the thread tight to form a knot.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 along the entire edge of your fabric or around the fabric pieces you want to applique.
7. When you reach the end of your stitching, secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of your fabric.
The blanket stitch is a versatile stitch that can add a decorative touch to your sewing projects. With a little practice, you’ll be able to incorporate it into a variety of designs. So grab your needle and thread, and give the blanket stitch a try!
STITCH USE: This stitch is used to finish the edges of blankets, felt projects, and toys, as well as sewing appliqué. Unlike other stitches, it stands out and is visible.
Thread your needle and knot the thread. Start sewing by pressing the needle into the fabric about 1/2″ away from the folded edge and bring it up to the top.
Next, pull the entire needle and thread through the fabric until the knot reaches the underside.
For this first stitch, loop the thread around the hemline and press the needle onto the underside of your fabric at the same spot you just came through. Pull the needle and thread through this hole.
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Pull the thread, but don’t make it too taut. Keep a small loop.
Take your needle and run it through the loop, going left to right.
Pull the thread taut. Your free thread should meet up with your stitch at the hemline (shown by a red dot on the photo).
Press the tip of your needle on the underside of your fabric about 1/2″ to the left of your original thread exit and also 1/2″ away from the hemline.
Pull the needle through to the top of your fabric and thread until a small loop remains.
Next, thread your needle through this loop, running left to right.
Pull the thread taut to create a square without a top.
The blanket stitch holds each stitch in place.
The whip stitch is a sewing technique.
The whip stitch is a fast and easy stitch. The short, diagonal stitches are used for hemming window treatments because they’re almost invisible on a hem.
First, thread your needle and knot the thread at the end. Bring the needle to the top of the fabric from the underside so the knot is hidden. This stitch is most easily sewn vertically.
Press the tip of your needle into the fabric’s two edges, diagonally above-right your original exit point. Aim the needle from the underside of the fabric, about 1/2″ above-left (back to the original fabric hem).
To make your sewing process easier, pull the needle and thread through to the top of the original fabric and tighten the thread.
Continue this method (diagonal-right, diagonal-left) to create a barbershop pole seam.
Due to the diagonal nature of these stitches, it is easy for them to become uneven in length and spacing. However, try to keep them consistent by referring back to your original stitches as needed to maintain the same length and spacing further up the seam.
Sewing is a popular hobby for many people. It allows you to be creative and make your own clothing or home decor. One important stitch to learn is the slip stitch, also known as the ladder stitch.
This stitch is commonly used in sewing to close openings or attach fabric in a discreet way.
The slip stitch, or ladder stitch, is often used for closing openings in pillows, stuffed animals, or garments. It creates an almost invisible seam, which is ideal for a professional finish. To sew a slip stitch, you will need a hand sewing needle and a thread that matches your fabric.
To begin, fold the raw edges of the fabric inward and align them. Thread your needle and knot the end of the thread. Insert the needle into the folded edge of the fabric and bring it out a small distance away. Then, take a small stitch on the opposite side, directly across from the first stitch. Continue this process, making small stitches that form a ladder-like pattern.
Make sure to keep the tension even and consistent throughout.
As you sew, the stitches should be barely visible on the outside of the fabric. The key is to sew through only a few threads of fabric, rather than going all the way through. This creates a secure seam while maintaining an invisible appearance.
Once you reach the end of the opening, secure the thread with a knot and trim any excess.
Overall, sewing a slip stitch is a simple technique that can elevate the look of your handmade items. By mastering this stitch, you can achieve a professional finish and create clean, seamless closures. Whether you’re sewing garments, home decor, or accessories, the slip stitch is a valuable skill to have.
So next time you’re working on a sewing project, don’t forget to utilize the slip stitch. It may seem small, but its impact on the final product is significant. With practice, this technique will become second nature, and you’ll be able to apply it effortlessly to your sewing projects.
STITCH USE: The slip stitch, also known as the “ladder stitch,” is used to close homemade pillows. By choosing a thread that matches your fabric, the stitch becomes invisible.
First, thread your needle and knot the end of your thread.
Take your thread and press the tip onto the fabric in one of the folds. Pull the thread through so the knot is invisible.
Press the tip of the needle on the opposite hem directly across from the original exit point. Push the tip into the fabric so that it follows the hem inside the fold.
Exit the needle tip from the hem fold 1/2″ to 3/4″ away from the insertion point.
Pull the needle and thread out from the folded hem, and pull the thread taut to close the first “rung” of your ladder stitch.
Press the tip of your needle on the opposite hem directly across from the most recent exit point.
Thread the needle tip through the folded hem, about 1/2″ to 3/4″ away from the insertion point, then exit the needle.
Pull the needle and thread out, and pull it taut. It resembles a ladder, with each stitch acting as a rung between the two vertical hems.
Continue until you’ve completed your slip-stitch seam.
Here, I haven’t tightened the thread yet. This is to show the desired appearance of the stitch.
When I tug it quickly, you can see the thread almost disappears.
Sewing is a versatile skill and knowing how to sew different stitches can greatly enhance your sewing projects. One important stitch to master is the back stitch. The back stitch is a strong and versatile stitch that can be used for many purposes, such as sewing seams, adding decorative details, and repairing tears or holes in fabric.
To sew a back stitch, start by bringing the needle up through the fabric at the starting point of your stitch. Then, insert the needle back into the fabric a short distance away, creating a small stitch. Next, bring the needle up through the fabric again, a short distance ahead of the first stitch. Insert the needle back into the fabric at the end point of the first stitch, creating a second stitch that overlaps the first one.
Continue stitching in this way, creating a neat row of overlapping stitches.
The back stitch is a great stitch to use when you need a strong and secure seam. It creates a line of stitches that is durable and resistant to fraying or unraveling. Additionally, the back stitch allows for precision and control, making it a good choice for adding decorative details or making repairs.
When sewing with a back stitch, it’s important to use the right thread and needle for your fabric. Thicker fabrics may require a thicker thread and needle to ensure a strong and secure stitch. Thinner fabrics, on the other hand, may require a finer thread and needle to prevent the fabric from puckering or tearing.
In conclusion, the back stitch is a valuable stitch to know when it comes to sewing. It’s versatile, strong, and can be used for a variety of purposes. By mastering the back stitch, you can elevate the quality and durability of your sewing projects.
The back stitch is pretty and strong. It is mainly used for sewing heavy-duty seams, basic embroidery, and forming letters in stitching.
First, thread your needle and knot the thread at the end. Press the tip of your needle onto the underside of your fabric about 1/2″ in front of your actual seam starting point (designated by a red dot in this photo). Pull the whole needle and thread through to the top of your fabric, and pull the thread so the knot touches the underside of the fabric.
To begin, place your needle on the fabric at the actual seam start, approximately 1/2″ below the initial exit point.
Pull the needle and thread through to the underside of your fabric, and pull the thread taut.
Press the tip of your needle onto the underside of your fabric about 1/2″ in front of the original exit point.
Pull the needle and thread through to the top of your fabric, and tighten the thread.
Press the needle onto the fabric at or near the original exit point.
Next, pull the needle and thread through to the underside of your fabric. Pull the thread taut to create your second backstitch.
Continue using this “two steps forward, one step back” method until you have completed your backstitch seam.
The back stitch is a striking stitch for any DIY project or fashion design.
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“How to sew seven basic hand stitches.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To sew a button on, thread the needle through the loop and tie a knot at the end. Place the button in position and bring the needle up through the buttonhole. Pull the thread tight and repeat this process through the opposite buttonhole until the button is secure.
Finally, tie off the thread with a knot.
Can you sew everything by hand?
You can sew many things by hand, but not everything. For example, materials like leather may be too thick to sew by hand. However, you can still use hand stitching for many things, such as clothes and DIY projects.
Is hand stitching strong?
Machine sewing is stronger than hand sewing, but hand sewing can still create strong stitches. However, hand sewing can be inconsistent in terms of stitch length and is slower than machine sewing. The backstitch is the strongest and most durable hand stitch.
To end a stitch, pull the needle through the wrong side of the fabric, slip it under the back of the nearest stitch, tie several knots, and trim the thread. Learning how to hand sew and mastering these seven basic stitches is a beneficial investment for the future.
Gather a sewing kit to be ready for any occasion. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can advance to sewing machines, following patterns, and becoming your own fashion designer. The possibilities are endless.
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