Introduction
Hand sewing is one of the oldest and most traditional sewing techniques in the world, and is still widely used today to embellish, mend and tailor fabric.It is a great way to experience the creative and creative act of sewing, as the process and results of hand sewing are surprisingly close to the work of a sewing machine.In this article we will be giving an overview on the technique of hand sewing and what sets it apart from machine sewing, as well as giving tips on how to hand sew like a sewing machine.
Preparation and Supplies
Before beginning to hand sew, it is important to make sure that you have all the right supplies needed for your project.This includes needles, thread, fabric and appropriate scissors.Different kinds of threads and needles for hand stitching will get you better results, as the thread is thicker than traditional machine thread and needles are shorter and sturdier.Fabric should be pre-cut to the correct size, as it can be quite hard to cut fabric with scissors while it is still being held and stitched.
Getting Started
When beginning a project, it is best to secure your fabric to a board or cushion for better stability and easier handling.This step can be skipped if you feel comfortable and can secure the fabric by other means.To start a stitch, you need to thread the desired length of thread through the eye of the needle and tie a knot at the end.A simple knot can be made by tying a double knot onto the thread, or by using a single knot and looping it.
Stitching Techniques
Once you have your thread and knot tied, you can begin stitching in several different ways.Most stiches are worked by simply passing the needle in and out of the fabric, in an up and down motion.A back stitch is the strongest and most useful stitch techniques which is done by making small stitches of about two or three stitches, looping the thread through the fabric and repeating the process.The most popular stitch for hand sewing is the running stitch, which is executed in long lines of small, even stitches that are very tight together.Other stitches such as cross stitch and Satin stitch, which involve overlapping stitches for a decorative effect, can be added for an extra layer of detail.
Finishing Touches
Once the project is completed, it is important to secure the stitch to prevent it from unraveling.A simple stitch can be secured by knotting the thread at the end, while a backstitch may require a decorative knot to be sewn such as a French knot.Either way, securing stitches is a necessary step to protect your hard work and makes sure that your fabric remains secure.
Handling Different Materials
It is important to select the right needle and thread for different types of materials.Thicker material such as denim and canvas will require a stronger thread and a thicker needle, while finer materials such as silk and organza will require a finer thread and a slim needle.Choosing the right material will make it easier to create even stitches without making a noticeable puncture in the fabric.
Conclusion
Hand sewing is a great way to work with fabric and create beautiful and intricate pieces of fabric.It is an age old technique that has given us so many amazing garments and exquisite pieces of art.The tips and techniques mentioned in this article are just the basics and should help you get started on the journey of learning how to hand sew.
Machine VS Hand Sewing
Hand sewing and machine sewing are both traditional and timeless methods of sewing and each has its own unique features and benefits. Machine sewing is faster, as well as more accurate and efficient in creating uniform and precise stitches. Hand sewing, on the other hand, is slower but allows for more creativity and flexibility as it is not restricted by a specific pattern or standard. It also allows for more detail as many complex stitches can be executed with a hand sewing needle and thread.
Advanced Sewing Techniques
For those who are more experienced in hand sewing, there are a few advanced techniques that can be learned and explored. Buttonhole stitch is a method used to make fabric loops that can be used for buttoning, hems, or decorative additions. Overcasting is a way to secure the edges of fabrics in order to prevent them from fraying and wear out more quickly.Couching is another technique popularly used for decorative effects in embroidery, as it uses extra threads to stitch down and secure designs.
Designing Embroidery
Hand sewing can also be used to create beautiful, intricate embroidery designs. Embroidery can be used to embellish clothing and other fabrics, as well as to make wall hangings and other decorative pieces.The first step is to select the desired pattern and then sketch it out on the fabric.Threads of different colors and heights can be used to enhance the design and to create patterns, and then started to fill the design with tacked or backstitched stitches.
Mending and Repairing
Another common use for hand sewing is repairing and mending clothing and fabrics.It is a very practical method to fix broken seams, pockets and buttons, and can also be used to lengthen and shorten garments.Mending and repairing can be a tedious task, but it is rewarding and a great way to practice hand sewing.
