For Day 5, we will go to Interquilten in Interlochen
Agenda for the day:
- We will learn how to do basic stitches, mending, buttons, zippers
- Students will become familiar with common sewing techniques and types of fabrics
- Discuss how sewing skills can extend beyond just 'sewing'
Having a basic understanding of simple stitches can not only be handy when you pop a button or need to fix a hem in your pants, but they can also be critical skills in making clothing or mending things if the means to mass produce clothing ever ceased!
The Tools
To begin, thread your needle and knot the thread. To learn how to do this, read Hand Sewing: Thread a Needle, Tie a Knot. Next, determine which stitch to use from the list below. When you finish hand sewing, use the securing stitch to prevent your stitches from coming undone.
- Needle: For information on selecting the right hand sewing needle, read Hand Sewing: Selecting the Right Needle for the Job.
- Thread: For information on selecting the right thread, read Selecting the Right Thread for the Job.
- Thimble: A thimble is optional, but it's helpful with heavier fabrics or when pushing the needle through several thicknesses.
- Place the thimble on your middle of your right hand if you're right handed and vice versa if you're a lefty.
- Hold your needle between your thumb and index finger.
- Insert the needle into the fabric and push it through with the side or end of the thimble.
To begin, thread your needle and knot the thread. To learn how to do this, read Hand Sewing: Thread a Needle, Tie a Knot. Next, determine which stitch to use from the list below. When you finish hand sewing, use the securing stitch to prevent your stitches from coming undone.
Basting stitch - a basting stitch is used to temporarily hold together pieces that may shift as you use your sewing machine. When basting, it's a good idea to use a contrasting thread so it's easier to remove the basting stitches after the permanent sewing is complete.
You can use your sewing machine to create a basting stitch, but there are times when it's better done by hand, for example, when you want a stripe or plaid to match perfectly across a seam. Weave your needle in and out of the fabric creating the look of a dashed line. Stitch about 1/4-inch stitches with equal length spaces between. Overcast stitch - The overcast stitch is used to finish cut edges on fabrics that tend to ravel, such as linens and gabardines. Your sewing machine may have an overcasting stitch that will save you from hand sewing.
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Running stitch - The running stitch is done in the same way as the basting stitch, but with short evenly spaced 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch stitches (depending on your fabric -- smaller stitch for lighter-weight fabric). The running stitch is best done using your sewing machine, but this stitch is good for gathering or quickly mending a seam that has come apart.
Slip Stitch - This is the hand stitch I find most useful. A slip stitch is used to create an invisible seam between two folded edges, or a folded edge and a flat edge. You can use slip stitching for bindings, to close a lining, for the final stitches on a stuffed pillow, or to apply applique invisibly.
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Backstitch - The backstitch creates a very strong seam. It's used on heavy or dense fabrics and often to repair a seam. Begin at the right end.
Blind Hem Stitch - If your sewing machine can make a blind hem stitch, you'll find it superior and faster than hemming by hand.
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Securing Stitch - Regardless of the type of stitch you use, you will need to finish with a securing stitch to prevent your work from coming undone.
- Take one small backstitch and make a loop over the point of the needle.
- Pull the thread through the loop to create a knot at the base of the fabric.
- For a stronger secure stitch, repeat the process to create two knots.
Read here to learn how to sew in a zipper!
Read here to learn how to sew in a button!
Homework: Consider the ways that you might be able to use these skills outside of making clothing. How might this skill come in handy in an emergency situation? Write your response in the homework response forum.