TextileGlossary.com

What is "Stitch" - Definition & Explanation

Stitch
A stitch is a unit of sewing that is used to join fabrics together or to add decorative elements to a garment or textile. Stitches are made by passing a needle and thread through two or more layers of fabric, creating a series of interlocking loops that hold the layers together.

There are many different types of stitches used in textiles, each with its own unique purpose and properties. Some of the most common stitches include:

Straight stitch: This is the most basic and commonly used stitch. It is created by passing the needle through the fabric and then back through in a straight line, creating a series of evenly spaced stitches.

Zigzag stitch: This stitch is created by moving the needle back and forth in a zigzag pattern, which creates a flexible and stretchy seam that is ideal for joining stretchy fabrics or for creating decorative edges.

Overlock stitch: This stitch is used to finish the edges of a fabric to prevent fraying. It is created by looping the thread over the edge of the fabric and then sewing it in place.

Blind stitch: This stitch is used for hemming and is created by folding the fabric over and then sewing the hem in place from the inside, creating an invisible seam on the outside.

Chain stitch: This stitch is created by looping the thread over itself to create a chain-like pattern. It is often used for decorative purposes or for creating seams that need to be able to stretch.

Stitches can be made by hand or by machine, depending on the type of stitch and the purpose of the seam. Hand-stitching is often used for delicate fabrics or for creating intricate designs, while machine stitching is faster and more efficient for larger projects.

The choice of stitch depends on the purpose of the seam and the fabric being used. For example, a straight stitch is ideal for joining two pieces of fabric together, while an overlock stitch is better for finishing the edges of a fabric to prevent fraying. A zigzag stitch is ideal for joining stretchy fabrics, while a chain stitch is better for decorative purposes or for creating seams that need to be able to stretch.

In addition to joining fabrics together, stitches can also be used to add decorative elements to a garment or textile. Embroidery, for example, is the process of adding decorative stitches to a fabric to create a design or pattern. This can be done by hand or by machine, and can be used to create everything from intricate lace to simple monograms.

In conclusion, a stitch is a unit of sewing that is used to join fabrics together or to add decorative elements to a garment or textile. There are many different types of stitches used in textiles, each with its own unique purpose and properties. The choice of stitch depends on the purpose of the seam and the fabric being used, and can be made by hand or by machine. Stitches are an important part of the textile industry and are used to create everything from basic seams to intricate embroidery designs.
Stitch
(Dbl. lock/class 400 - A stitch formed with two or more groups of threads that interlace each other. The loops of needle thread are passed through the material where they are secured by looper threads; no bobbins used. This stitching ravels in one direction.
Stitch
A stitch formed with two or more groups of threads that interlace each other. The loops of needle thread are passed through the material where they are secured by looper threads; no bobbins used. This stitching ravels in one direction.
Stitch
(Zig-zag) - A stitch made on a sewing machine in which the needle bar comes down alternately on the right and left side of an imaginary center line. Also refers to the type of machine producing this stitch.
Stitch
(Lock/class 300) - A stitch formed with two or more groups of threads that interface each other. The loops of needle threads are passed through the material where they are secured by bobbin threads.
Stitch
(Top) - A second row of stitching close to the edge of a seam, after two or more pieces of fabric have been sewed together and turned to bury the raw seam margin side.
Stitch
(Chain/Class 100) - A stitch formed with one or more needle threads, the look=ps of which are passed through the material and through the loops of the preceding threads.
Stitch
(overedge/class 500) - A stitch formed with one or more groups of threads at least one of which passes around the edge of the material.
Stitch
(hand/class 200) - A stitch formed by hand with one or more needles---one thread per needle passing in and out of the material.
Stitch
(Backstitch) - Used at the beginning and end of stitching to reinforce and prevent raveling. Also called backtack or stay-stitch.
Stitch
A stitch is a single turn or loop of the thread or yarn in sewing, knitting, and embroidery.
Stitch
(Baste) - A stitching which holds the fabric in place until permanent stitching has been completed.
Stitch
(safety) - A combination chain-stitch and overedge stitch made simultaneously on the same sewing machine.
Stitch
(Blind) - A stich that is not visible on one side of the fabric.
Stitch
(Flat seam/class 600) - Multi-needle stitches that provide the elasticity necessary for knits.
Stitch
(Contrasting) - When the stitching thread contrasts the garment color.

Some other terms

Some more terms:

Mordants are after-fixing chemicals essential to impart some degree of colour fastness performance to most natural dyes and some synthetic ones. They are typically metal salts and therefore decidedly...
The process of dyeing fiber prior to formation into yarns. Very high fastness dyes can be used and there is less pressure on getting color exactly right since batches can be blended prior to yarn...
A yarn with two different staple or filament components: A plied yarn constructed of two different singles yarns. A core-spun or other wrapped yarn. A filament yarn combining two types of...
In the context of textiles, a harness refers to a component or structure used in weaving machines to control the movement of warp yarns during the weaving process. It plays a crucial role in the...
pallium a white woolen band with pendants in front and back worn over the chasuble by a pope or archbishop as a symbol of full Episcopal authority; a rectangular cloth worn as a cloak by men of...

Add a definition

Add a definition for a textile term that you know about! Send us an email & tell us:
  • The term you want to define
  • Its definition in 500 words or less
  • Attach an image if necessary.
  • Optionally, tell us about yourself in 200 words or less!

Companies for Stitch:

If you manufacture, distribute or otherwise deal in Stitch, please fill your company details below so that we can list your company for FREE! Send us the following details:
  • Company name
  • Company address
  • Attach a logo, if necessary.
  • Optionally, tell us about yourself in 200 words or less!

(s) 2023 TextileGlossary.com Some rights reserved. • Sitemap