Decorative Stitches
Decorative Stitches are tiny bits of thread art made by hand or machine. Sewing machines with a zig-zag option will have a variety of decorative stitches to choose from. They may be adaptations of a zig-zag, or patterns with a straight stitch. These stitches can be done in a variety of ways by changing the thread, width and length of a stitch. Newer machines will also have options for developing your own stitch patterns or repetitions, as well as mirroring. Decorative stitches can also be done by hand and are most commonly referred to as Embroidery Stitches.
Benefits of Decorative Stitches
- Decorative Stitches can be used in place of a blanket stitch or satin stitch for machine applique,
- Decorative stitches can be used for Stitch in the Ditch to add interest and design elements to a quilt.
- Deocrative Stitches add interest when used for couching.
- Decorative Stitches add character with minimal effort and can be used to create your own fabric.
Tools and Supplies Decorative Stitches
- Basic Sewing Supplies
- Sewing machine with Decorative Stitches
- Sewing machine manual
- Specialty pressor feet
- Thread
- Stabilizer might be needed based on the fabrics and stitches used.
What I Wish I Knew When I Started Decorative Stitches
When using DECORATIVE STITCHES, always test out your stitches first on a sample. If will save you a lot time having to go back and pick-out those stitches from your quilt if you decide after starting that maybe it wasn't, perhaps the best choice. In addition, if you need to alter any tensions, it would be better to know that before you started using them on your main project.
Take the time to learn what your sewing machine can do and develop a Stitch Sample book. Pick your favorite stitches and experiment with the lenght and width of your stitch to determine the variations. Different thread wieghts will also change the look of the decorative stitches. Use a permanent ink pen to make notes on the settings used.
