Do you want your sewing projects to look professionally handmade? Check out these tips and tricks for more professional topstitching.
What is topstiching?
Topstitching can be a single row, or multiple rows of regular machine stitching that is placed on the outside of a garment, usually 1/4″ from the edge. Edge stitching is similar to top stitching, and often used in tandem. However, edge stitching is placed 1/16″ from the edge. Anything more, it is considered top stitching.
Why you must master the top stitch…
Topstitching is highly visible and is both decorative and functional. Often times, it is used as an accent. But, it also has a utilitarian purpose, which is to attach pockets, plackets and yokes. And it aids in stability and reinforcement. Nothing, and I mean nothing screams homemade more than wavy, crooked, and uneven top stitching!
Okay, so maybe you have an edge stitch foot…and this isn’t a problem for you. Well then… carry on. But, for the rest of us who don’t have one of them…we improvise!
The Blind Hem Foot
The blind hem foot is a nifty little sewing foot with a blade designed to keep your hem in place while sewing. Well, who says we can use it to sew a straight line too!
Position your fabric under the foot and adjust the needle position. For example, if you are wanting to edge stitch, position the needle right on the edge. If your wanting to do a regular topstitch, adjust needle accordingly.
While sewing, simply keep the edge of the fabric touching the blade. It’s really that simple! Go try it!
What to do if you don’t have a blind hem foot?
Well, maybe you could use a zipper foot? I know, who knew, right!? You can follow the same procedure as the blind hem foot. Line up the fabric and adjust the needle position for your project.
The zipper foot works especially well for decorative topstitching.
Disclaimer: The zipper foot doesn’t have a blade and will require a little more effort!
3 tips for sewing sewing straight
1. Use washi tape or a magnetic seam guide. Your sewing machine will also have the seam guide on the metal throat plate.
2. Watch the fabric, not the needle. Line the edge of fabric up with something and watch there!
3. Slow down. That’s right, just sew slower! Some machines have settings for this, which I find incredible useful!
Well, I hope that helps you get better, straighter topstitching results! Leave a comment and let me know if you try one of these tips and tricks..or if you already use them!
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Very good tips to be get a professional finish. Thanks
Thanks! Glad to help!