Sewing machines are a great way to make different types of clothes and fabrics. Gathering stitch on a sewing machine is a great way to make different fabric styles look beautiful and give them a unique, textured look. In this article, readers will learn how to do gathering stitch on a sewing machine and how to use it to make their fabrics stand out.
Types of Gathers
Gathering stitches are stitches used to make fabrics gathered in a particular way. These types of stitches can be used to make fabrics look longer, fuller or pleated, or to add texture or detail to a piece of fabric. There are three main types of gathers: elastic gathering, pin tucking and corded gathering. Elastic gathering is done by stretching an elastic thread to create gathers. Pin tucking involves making spaced folds in fabric, while corded gathering is done by stitching over a cord, creating ruffles or pleats.
How to Do Gathering Stitch on a Sewing Machine
Gathering stitch on a sewing machine is relatively easy and straightforward. To get started, thread your machine with a strong thread and secure the bobbin with the correct tension. Next, set your sewing machine to a zigzag stitch using a stitch length of two. Begin sewing, leaving a long tail at the beginning and end of the stitch. As you sew, ease the fabric to create gathers until you reach the desired length. Secure the stitch with a few back stitches and then cut off the excess thread.
Tips for Sewing Gathers
When it comes to sewing gathers, it’s important to consider a few tips to get the best results. First, use a strong thread – something like nylon or polyester – that won’t break or stretch when pulled, as this could affect the look of your fabric. You’ll also want to start gathering your fabric before you begin stitching. By pulling and twisting the fabric as you sew, it will be easier to create even, consistent gathers. And lastly, don’t use pins when gathering stitch, as this could damage your fabric or make the stitches uneven.
Alternative Methods for Gathers
Gathering stitch on a sewing machine isn’t the only way to create gathers on fabric. Hand gathering – also known as basting – is a great alternative. To hand gather, use a long, loose running stitch and a large needle. Sew the gathering stitch and pull the thread as you go to create even gathers, and secure with a few back stitches. This method of gathering is best suited for lightweight fabrics, as heavy fabrics can be difficult to gather by hand.
Advantage of Gathering Stitching
Gathering stitch allows you to create unique textures and patterns on fabric, making them look more interesting and adding depth to a garment. Gathers can also make a piece of fabric look fuller and thicker without adding more fabric. Gathers also add an element of interest, as the texture and pattern of each stitch can vary, depending on how you manipulate the fabric as you sew.
Gathering Feet for the Sewing Machine
If you want to add gathering stitch to your sewing projects, consider getting a gathering foot attachment for your sewing machine. A gathering foot makes it much easier to sew gathers, as it keeps the fabric in place as you sew and helps guide the stitch. Had to create even and consistent gathers. Gather feet also help you save time and effort, as you don’t have to adjust the stitch length or hand manipulate the fabric as you sew.
Preparing Fabric for Gathers
Before adding gathers to fabric, it’s important to prepare it properly. Make sure the fabric is washed, dried and pressed before beginning, as this will make it easier to manipulate and create even, consistent gathers. Also, take time to measure and pin the fabric in place before stitching. This will help you avoid any unnecessary puckering and ensure that you get the desired look.
Accenting with Gathers
Gathers can be used to accent different pieces of clothing such as skirts, tops, dresses and pants. To add unique details to garments, consider adding gathering stitch to hems, collars, cuffs and waistbands. Gathers can also be used to create ruffles and pleats, which can make a piece of clothing look even more stylish and sophisticated.
Gathers for Different Fabrics
Gathering stitch can be used on most types of fabrics, including cotton, silk, linen, wool and synthetics. However, it is important to note that certain fabrics may require a different stitch length and tension in order to achieve the desired look. For example, lightweight fabrics will require a shorter stitch length than heavier fabrics in order to create uniform gathers.
Troubleshooting Common Gathers Problems
When it comes to gathering stitch, problems can arise if the fabric isn’t properly prepared or manipulated. To avoid puckering or uneven gathers, make sure the fabric is pressed and the stitch length is adjusted correctly. If the gathers are still uneven, try again, this time stretching the fabric as you sew. Pulling and twisting the fabric as you sew will help create even, consistent gathers.
Finishing Gathers
Once the gathers have been created, it’s important to finish them correctly. To do this, secure the stitch with a few back stitches and trim any excess thread. Gathers can also be left unfinished – simply knot the thread at the beginning and end of the stitch, and trim off the excess.
How to Design with Gathers
Gathers are a great way to add texture and detail to a garment, and can be used in a variety of creative ways. Consider experimenting with different types of gathers, such as elastic gathers, pin tucks and corded gathers, and mix and match to create unique, eye-catching designs. Use gathers to draw attention to certain areas of a garment, such as hems, collars and cuffs, or to create interesting patterns and texture.
How to Handle Uneven Gathers
If your gathers are too long or short, or if the stitch is too tight or loose, don’t worry. As long as the fabric isn’t stretched or damaged, you can still fix the problem. To make the gathers even, try re-stitching the same line, this time pulling the fabric gently as you go. For too tight or too loose stitching, either adjust the stitch length and tension or, if necessary, start again.
Creating Multiple Gathers
For added texture and detail, consider creating multiple gathers on a single piece of fabric. Simply adjust the stitch length and tension and sew multiple lines of gathering stitch on the same fabric. This will create a more dramatic effect and add depth to your design. To add even more interest, stitch different types of gathers – such as pin tucks and corded gathers – on the same fabric.
Gathers for Home Décor Projects
Gathers don’t just have to be used for clothing and fashion projects. They can also be used in home décor projects and added to pillows, curtains, bed linens and more. Gathers will add texture to any home décor item and can be used to create unique, eye-catching designs. Experiment with different types and widths of gathers to create interesting patterns and textures on home décor items.
