A topstitch is a variant of the straight stitch. It’s a decorative stitch but can also be used as a structural stitch. Topstitching is most often seen on garments and bags, but can also be seen on quilts.
What does top stitch mean in sewing?
Topstitching is a sewing technique where the line of stitching is designed to be seen from the outside of the garment, either decorative or functional. … Otherwise, topstitching is generally done using a straight stitch with a thread that matches the fashion fabric.
Is a top stitch a straight stitch?
Topstitching is as simple as sewing a straight stitch. … Topstitching adds texture and definition-similar to quilting, and gives decorative effects based on thread, stitch, and placement choices. Edgestitching is also topstitching that is sewn usually 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch from the edge.
Is top stitching necessary?
It’s important to take the time to get to know each of the different styles and the function that each approach serves. Topstitching is usually for decorative purposes but can also be used as an essential stitch for construction and durability as well.
When should you top stitch?
On medium weight fabrics use a stitch length of 3, but heavier fabrics 3.5-4 is more ideal. Using a longer stitch will help you project look neat and uncluttered. 5) There is no need to backstitch when topstitching, as it is a decorative stitch rather than a construction stitch.
What is the best stitch for hemming?
Twin needle hems are especially effective on knit fabrics as it will flex with the fabric. 1. Use a serger or an overcast stitch to sew a finished edge on the raw edge to be hemmed.
What thread should I use for topstitching?
We find that the Gutermann Extra Strong thread pulls better through the machine and is thick enough to look great in a topstitching application. The Mara 30 is very thick and often knots, jams or bird’s nests. We’ve used the Gutermann Extra Strong for all our Thayer Jackets, samples and sew-alongs.
Why are my stitches not straight?
If your thread is pulled tight on the underside and not forming an even stitch then (counter-intuitively) it’s usually the top thread tension that’s wrong. Sometimes very lightweight fabrics such as sheers can get dragged down into the machine so it’s a good idea to use a straight stitch plate.
What should a straight stitch look like?
Straight Stitch
When it’s just right, your stitch will look like the one in the middle. The one on the left is too tight, causing the fabric to pucker, while the one on the right is too loose, making the stitches loopy. Here’s the same stitch on the underside of the fabric.
Why does my top stitch look wrong?
Needles, threads, and fabrics: Different thread sizes and types on top and in the bobbin can throw off basic tension settings. A needle that’s too large or small for the thread can also unbalance your stitches, because the size of the hole adds to or reduces the total top tension.
What is the strongest sewing stitch?
The strongest stitch on a sewing machine is a straight stitch. The straight stitch is very hard to tear, and when combined with tough and long-lasting nylon or polyester thread, we get the most durable result.
How do you keep top stitch straight?
First of all, let me show you how to make straight topstitching close to the fabric edges and keep the stitching line parallel to the edge.
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There are some simple rules you need to remember here:
- Don’t look at the needle, focus on the white guide bar.
- Hold the fabric lightly – don’t pull or push.
- Don’t sew very fast also.
What is stay stitching?
What is Staystitching? Staystitching is a straight stitch sewn through one layer of fabric. It’s most often used around a curve to prevent distortion. This is because the curve cuts across the bias, the stretchiest part of the fabric.
What should sewing machine tension be?
So we’ll be talking only about the top thread tension since that’s where you’d usually make the adjustments. The dial settings run from 0 to 9, so 4.5 is generally the ‘default’ position for normal straight-stitch sewing. This should be suitable for most fabrics.
What stitch is used for a collar?
Turn to face, tuck seam allowances into collar stand and press. Then top-stitch around collar stand 3 mm from the edge, making sure that lower folded edge of the collar stand is caught in the seam. For a clean /classic look, sink-stitch (stitch in the ditch) along the neckline seam to connect the lower collar stand.
What are top stitch needles used for?
The Topstitch needle is our favorite needle to use on our home sewing machine. We use this style for quilting, piecing, sewing, and embroidery. A thin layer of titanium nitride makes the Topstitch needle last up to six times longer than a standard needle, thanks to its ability to resist abrasion.