pp1854622のブログ

How To Have Professional Topstitching

Topstitching is done on the right side of the project and usually for decoration or stabilization. This is not a hard technique to do but it requires some tricks to have professional-looking stitch lines.

Choosing Stitches

Topstitching

Your choice for topstitching depends on the options your machine has.

My model has a triple stitch and this is my favorite when it comes to topstitching. What I use is the best sewing machine for beginners and you can find it here: http://www.tabletopperslinen.com/ActivityFeed/MyProfile/tabid/61/UserId/32392/Default.aspx

I usually use all-purpose threads and sometimes a twin needle to have two parallel lines of stitches.

There are needles designed for topstitching. They usually have a large eye to accommodate thick thread. However, I recommend choosing a needle that suits your fabric.

Specialty Feet

Clear view quilting foot

Some specialty feet are optional but if you use them, the task will get faster and easier.

Overedge Foot – As the name indicates, this foot has a guide on the edge for an accurate seam allowance.

Quarter Inch Seam Foot – this foot features a side flange to keep a ¼” distance.

Edge Guide Foot – This is my latest favorite foot for topstitching. Unlike the two above feet which keep a fixed distance, I can adjust the length from the edge to my stitch line.

Clear View Quilting Foot – The guides on this foot is removable and you can actually see what you are sewing because most of the foot is clear.

On some machines, these feet come standard with the model. Different manufacturers even have different names for these feet. If you want to know more about which machine has the feet, read these best sewing machine for beginners reviews to find out.

Always test before you sew anything on your project. Test the stitch length, the foot, the tension, and the needle to make sure mishaps don’t happen.

Starting And Stopping

The best option to secure topstitching lines is hand-knot or Autolock stitch. We don’t backstitch in this situation as it would be too obvious since these stitches are for decoration.

If your machine has the Autolock feature, it would be great because the finish would look professional. On some machines, it can be as simple as pressing a button and a neat and small knot is made.

If your machine doesn’t have this function, don’t worry, you can always hand-knot. Simply leave thread tails at the beginning and the end. To hide the knot, use a separate needle to pull the thread to the wrong side and make a square knot there.

The autolock function is quick and easy but it does leave a bulk on the right side of the project. If you are using thread that has color matching the fabric, this shouldn’t be a problem. But if the thread can pop out, take time to pull it to the back and hand-knot there.

If you are interested in machines with the Autolock feature, read this article on best rated sewing machines for beginners for some guidance and suggestions.

Source: http://www.senado.gob.do/senado/UserProfile/tabid/42/userId/7018/Default.aspx