Types of Sewing Stitches

Sewing machines are a great piece of kit, as they can be incredibly versatile. This means that, no matter what project you may have, sewing machines can perform a multitude of stitches. But are there certain stitches that are required for a certain project?

Running Stitch

The running stitch is the most basic of all sewing stitches. This stitch works by passing the sewing needle in and out of the fabric. Depending on the project, the running stitch can vary in length but this type of stitch is mainly used to sew basic seams and in quilting to hold the fabric layers and wadding in place.

Lockstitch

This form of stitch is performed by most common single needle sewing machines. This stitch involves the needle passing through the fabric and interacting with a bobbin or boat shuttle beneath the fabric platform. Because of this, the end result is a strong stitch that can be used on any piece of clothing where there is a seam, such as shirts and blankets.

Coverstitch

For multiple needle sewing machines, the coverstitch is a very popular type of stitch. This involves two or more needles and one or two loopers. One looper manipulates the thread underneath the fabric being sewn, forming a bottom coverstitch against the needle thread. Another looper above the fabric can form a top coverstitch at the same time. This leads to a firm stitch that is used in garment construction, particularly in attaching trims and sewing flat seams.

Overlock

An overlock stitch, also known as a serger stitch, is used in multiple needle sewing machines. It involves between one and four threads, one or two needles and one or two loopers. The most common use for the overlock stitch is on seams in stretchy fabrics, and for protecting edges from unravelling. A common example of this is in belt loops on a pair of ns.

Zigzag Stitch

The zigzag stitch is a basic stitch that moves back and forth in a zigzag pattern. It serves various purposes such as finishing raw edges, preventing fraying and creating seams with stretchability. It can be commonly used for seam enclosures in unlined garments, attaching elastic for stretchable seams and decorative detailing.

Stretch Stitch

The stretch stitch is invaluable when working with stretchy fabrics like knits or spandex. It is specifically designed to provide strong, flexible seams, preventing popped seams that experience a lot of movement or stretching. The multiple rows of stitching allow the fabric to stretch without breaking the seam, maintaining the garment’s shape and integrity.

Basting Stitch

The basting stitch is a longer version of the running stitch, with stitches that are approximately 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch apart.

Cross Stitch (Catch Stitch)

The cross stitch, also known as the catch stitch, is suitable for finishing hems and for creating front-facing designs. It involves making "X" shapes in the fabric.

Whip Stitch

The whip stitch is ideal for quickly hemming thick pieces of fabric or joining two pieces of fabric together. Unlike the running stitch or backstitch, the whip stitch goes right over the edge of the fabric to seal in loose fibers. It is particularly useful for attaching pieces of knitting or crocheting together.

Backstitch

The backstitch is similar to the running stitch, but it involves going back over the stitch that was just made to eliminate gaps in the fabric between stitches. It provides a neat look when the stitch is visible on the outside of a garment and offers extra strength for hems.

Satin Stitch

Satin stitches are perfect for finishing edges and creating decorative elements in sewing projects, giving fabric edges a polished appearance. They can be adjusted to suit different materials and designs, offering versatility for various sewing needs. They are also a popular choice for creating intricate and elegant embroidery designs.

Chain Stitch

A chain stitch is a type of stitching in which the needle creates loops that resemble chains. It is frequently used to attach cloth pieces together or for decorative purposes.

Blind Hem Stitch

The blind hem stitch is designed to create an invisible hem on garments. It catches only a few threads of the fabric, making the stitch nearly undetectable on the right side. This stitch is perfect for achieving a professional and clean finish on skirts, pants, and dresses.

Buttonhole Stitch

The buttonhole stitch is used to create finished edges on buttonholes, preventing the fabric from fraying and providing a neat, durable opening for buttons. It can also be used for creating loops and other decorative elements.

Not only is it important to use the correct type of stitches for your project, but also to use the correct type of machine. At Stocks Sewing Machines Ltd, we are proud to provide efficient industrial sewing machines and embroidery machines that are specifically tailored for a certain type of stitch. Additionally, achieving high-quality results requires the right thread too. If you are looking for premium embroidery thread, we offer Isacord 100% polyester machine embroidery threads, available in over 390 colours on 1000m or 5000m cones, guaranteeing vibrant, durable finishes for all your stitching projects.

If you’d like to know more, then please don’t hesitate to contact us. Give us a call on 0113 242 9378 and our incredibly friendly team will be more than happy to help with your inquiry.