Material Required for Basting Stitch
Before basting stitch, you need to prepare materials needed. This includes: a sewing machine, a basting stitch presser foot, thread and a fabric that requires basting. To ensure the basting stitch is successful, it essential that you use quality materials to achieve a neat and tight basting.
Fitting the Presser Foot
To begin basting stitch, you must first attach the right presser foot on the sewing machine. It is important to select the right presser foot because it helps the fabric to lie flat during stitching. Start by turning the hand wheel with your right hand to allow the needle and thread to fully lower. The needle should be completely low and touching the plate. After that, remove the existing presser foot and fit the basting stitch foot.
Position the Fabric
Once you fix the presser foot, you must now place the fabric that needs basting. Use the hand wheel to lower the needle into the fabric. Gently hold the fabric and move it underneath the needle and presser foot. Now, you can start basting stitch. The presser foot should be flat on the fabric, allowing the stitches to have a nice finish.
Stitch the Fabric
Now that the fabric is ready, you can start basting stitch. Start by checking the stitch length, making sure it is perfectly set to 8-12 stitches per inch. If you want to ensure that the basting stitch is done smoothly and perfectly, use a stabilizer and cutting mat at the bottom of the fabric. Adjust the tension settings as well, until you find a setting that is suitable for your fabric.
Tips for Better Stitching
For a successful basting stitch, many experts recommend that you use the correct kind of thread for the project. Using better quality thread enhances the quality of stitches. To improve the effect of basting stitches, be mindful of the speed of the sewing machine. Keep the machine at a slower speed and take breaks to ensure the basting stitches are smooth. Always remember to thread the bobbin and bobbin case correctly. This helps to avoid any threading problems.
Check the Stitch Quality
After the basting stitches are done, check the stitch quality by looking at the back side of the fabric. The stitches should be even; neither too tight nor too loose. If the stitches are not close enough, increase the stitch length setting. If the stitches are too close, reduce the stitch length setting. You must also check for any thread nests or thread tails as too many of them cause the fabric to ripple or pucker.
Removing the Basting Stitch
When you want to remove the basting stitch, use a seam ripper or point turner to take out the stitches. Carefully cut the thread and remove the stitches. Lastly, check again that the stitch quality is good and the fabric is not damaged in any way.
Machine Abuse
Sewing machines are complex pieces of equipment, with many small details and intricate mechanisms used to create complex stitches. As such, any abuse to the sewing machine may result in malfunctioning, as well as the possibility of damaging the machine. To prevent this, it is important to take special care while using the machine and to avoid damaging the mechanisms by using incorrect needles and threads, applying excessive pressure on the fabric, or not properly cleaning and oiling the machine.
Maintenance Tip
Regular maintenance and care of the sewing machine is essential to keep it in the best condition and prolong its life. This includes cleaning and oiling it properly, and replacing parts that are worn out or malfunctioning. Additionally, it is important to use the correct needle and thread for a particular project and to avoid excessive pressure on the fabric or machine during sewing.
Alternative Methods for Basting
Apart from basting stitch on a sewing machine, you can also opt for alternative methods for basting. You don hand basting which is a simple technique that is done by hand. You insert the needle through the fabric to make long stitches and connect in an overlap pattern. Additionally, some projects may require you to do temporary basting using basting glue, pins or tape.
Proper Ironing Techniques
When working on quilts and sewing, pressing is as important as stitching. Before pressing any fabric with a hot iron, make sure to always test the heat by pressing a scrap piece. Moreover, use a press cloth along with an adequate amount of steam while pressing the fabric. This helps to avoid any burning or creasing. Lastly, the piece of fabric should be pressed directly with an up-and-down movement, without sliding the iron.
