Overview
A zigzag stitch is a popular and versatile stitch used in both garment making and home décor projects. It is used to secure two pieces of fabric together, hold a hem in place, create decorative edges, and other such applications. It is also a surprisingly easy stitch to master and is considered to be a beginner-friendly stitch.
Materials Needed
To get started on a zigzag stitch, you will need a sewing machine, thread, a zigzag foot, and two pieces of fabric. The zigzag foot is a specialized presser foot designed specifically for stitching zigzag stitches. It is designed to move the fabric in an alternating ‘back and forth’ motion, which makes the zigzag stitch easier to make.
Setting Up The Machine
Once you have all the necessary materials, the first thing you need to do is set up the machine. This will include threading the machine, winding the bobbin, and attaching the zigzag foot. On most sewing machines, including Brother sewing machines, the zigzag foot is a snap-on foot. This means there are two tabs on either side of the foot which easily snap onto the machine.
Next, you need to adjust the settings for the zigzag stitch. Your machine will come with an instruction booklet that will have detailed instructions on how to set the machine up for a zigzag stitch. Taking the time to read through this guide will ensure that you get the best results.
Preparing The Fabric
Once the machine is set up, the next step is to prepare the fabric. This includes cutting the fabric to the desired size and pressing it to remove any wrinkles. It is important to make sure the fabric is pressed and free of any wrinkles as this can affect the final result.
Stitching The Zigzag
The last step is to actually stitch the zigzag. To do this, you will need to lower the presser foot and place the two pieces of fabric under the presser foot. Then, you will need to carefully guide the fabric through the machine so that the stitches line up with each other. Depending on the fabric you are using, you may need to use a slightly different stitch length or width.
Finishing Up
When you have finished stitching, you can cut the threads, turn the fabric right side out, and give it a light press to remove any wrinkles. You should also make sure the stitches are secure, as the zigzag stitch is not a secure stitch. If the fabric is going to be used in a garment or other project that may need to endure stress, you should consider using a stronger stitch, such as a straight stitch or a lock stitch.
Maintenance
To ensure that your sewing machine remains in good condition for years to come, it is important to perform regular maintenance. This includes regularly oiling the machine, cleaning the machine, and replacing any worn-out parts. Refer to the instruction booklet for specific instructions on how to do this.
Practice Makes Perfect
Finally, remember that practice makes perfect. It is unlikely that you will master the zigzag stitch on your first try, but with some practice, you will get the hang of it. So don’t be frustrated if it doesn’t come easily at first. Take your time and practice and you will soon be stitching a perfect zigzag stitch every time.
Creative Uses For Zigzag Stitch
The zigzag stitch is not just used for garment making and hemming, it is also a valuable stitch for decorating and embellishing projects. It is commonly used for decorative edges, applique and patchwork projects, and for making small, decorative buttons.
Colourful Possibilities
With the wide range of thread colours available today, the possibilities for creative zigzag stitches are almost endless. Experiment with different combinations of thread colour and fabric to create fun, colourful designs.
Adding Texture
For projects that require texture, the zigzag stitch is perfect. You can use different stitch lengths and widths to create different textures, such as a coarse, rippled pattern or a soft, swirly pattern.
Advanced Projects
The zigzag stitch can also be used in more advanced projects, such as quilting, embroidery, and free-motion quilting. With a bit of practice and some experimentation, you will soon be able to use the zigzag stitch to create stunning, intricate designs.
