Basting stitch

A basting stitch is a basic hand or machine sewing stitch used temporarily to hold fabric layers together and is often used as a basting stitch.

What is a Basting Stitch?

A basting stitch is a simple stitch where fabric layers are temporarily held together by evenly spaced stitches. It is commonly used for basting or preparation before a final stitch. In machine embroidery or textile workflows, this can act as a placement or guide stitch before decorative stitching begins.

Features & Use

  • Primarily used for basting: fabric layers are temporarily joined and will later be stitched permanently.
  • The stitch length is typically larger and looser than permanent stitches, making it easier to remove.
  • In embroidery file workflows, this stitch can serve as a guide or placement stitch before the main motif is applied.

Notes & Tips

  • Since a basting stitch is not intended for permanent seams, replace it with the proper stitch when durability is required.
  • thread tension and stitch length matter: if the stitch is too tight or short, removal becomes difficult or the fabric may be strained.

Also known as

  • Tacking stitch
  • Related Terms

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