If you are new to sewing or looking to enhance your sewing skills, learning the art of basting stitch with a sewing machine can be highly beneficial. Basting stitch is a temporary stitch used to hold fabric or layers of fabric together before sewing them permanently.
Follow the steps below to master the baste stitch technique:
- Select the appropriate thread: Choose a thread color that contrasts well with your fabric, making it easier to remove the basting stitch later.
- Prepare your sewing machine: Ensure your sewing machine is threaded correctly and equipped with a straight stitch presser foot. This foot allows the needle to move smoothly through the fabric.
- Select the stitch length: Set your sewing machine to the longest stitch length available. The longer the stitch, the easier it will be to remove later.
- Pin or clip the fabric layers: Place pins or clips along the edge or within the seam allowance to hold the fabric layers together before sewing. This ensures accurate alignment during the basting stitch.
- Baste stitch: Begin sewing along the edge of the fabric, about 1/4 inch from the raw edge. Use a slow and steady speed while guiding the fabric through the machine. Remember to backstitch a few stitches at the beginning and end to secure the basting stitch.
Here’s an example of how the baste stitch should look:
Basting stitch is often used for various purposes in sewing:
- For fitting purposes: Basting stitch allows you to temporarily check the fit of a garment before making permanent alterations.
- For attaching trims or embellishments: Basting stitch helps in accurately placing trims or embellishments before sewing them permanently.
- For gathering fabric: Basting stitch can be used to gather fabric for ruffles or gentle gathers.
- For quilting: Basting stitch allows you to temporarily secure quilt layers together before quilting.
Remember, once you have completed the basting process, you can easily remove the stitches by pulling gently on the thread. Take care not to damage the fabric.
Now that you know how to baste stitch with a sewing machine, you can explore its various applications and enjoy the benefits it offers in your sewing projects.
I haven’t done this before but am excited to try it! #learning
John White: Basting with a sewing machine can give you a lot more even stitches than hand basting. #handyhack
This is a great tutorial for new sewing machine users, love it! #skillbuilder #sewing #DIY
This looks like a great tutorial for those wanting to learn how to baste stitch with a sewing machine! #helpful #tutorial #sewing