Blind Stitch
Here's a hand sewing technique that can help you with hemming, applique and mending. The purpose is to stitch one fabric or one fold of fabric to another nearly invisibly.
Steps
- Thread a long, thin sewing needle with thread that matches the material you are going to sew.
- Knot one end of the thread.
- Iron the material to crease it if necessary. (In the cases of hems, or edges of applique, for example.)
- Position the fabrics as you want and pin them in place.
- Slide the needle through the material from the back side to attach the thread to the material. (The thread knot should hold in the material after the needle has slipped through.)
- From this point forward, your objective should be to make long stitches in one piece of fabric and tiny stitches in the other. By careful positioning of the needle points of exit or entry into the fabric, you can minimize the appearance of the hemming thread and make it appear invisible. See sketch.
- Congratulations on your new sewing skill!
- Finished.
Tips
- This stitch is sometimes referred to as "Slip Stitch" and "Hem Stitch".
- Longer, thinner needles make smaller holes and be easier to "aim" when sewing.
- Match your sewing thread to the fabric that will be the most exposed to view. This will minimize the appearance of any visible stitches.
- Do your research before picking a stitch. There may be a few options to choose from.
Warnings
- Take appropriate care when handling needles.
Things You'll Need
- Needle
- Matching thread
- Two fabrics to attach to each other.
- Thimble
Related Articles
- Hem Clothing by Hand
- Hem a Pair of Pants
- Assemble a Sewing Kit
- Blind Hem Stitch
