I can’t tell you how many projects have come close to destruction due to improper use of machine stitches. Recently, while sewing a yellow chiffon scarf, I almost ruined the hemline because it kept curling, and my pressing couldn’t conceal the mistakes. After carefully unpicking the stitches and conducting a quick web search, I realized that my sewing machine settings were incorrect. I quickly adjusted the dials to a straight stitch with a length of 1.5, a width of 2, and a tension of 3. Fortunately, my yellow chiffon scarf was saved in the end, and I believe it has become a wonderful addition to my wardrobe. To save yourself time and frustration, it is always beneficial to understand the combination of needles and stitch settings that work best with the type of fabric you are sewing. In this article, you will learn about the top six sewing machine stitches that will help you become an expert.

What are the 6 basic stitches?

There are numerous stitches involved in the garment-making process, but only six techniques are essential to master on your sewing machine. Once you feel confident with the basics, consider experimenting with other stitches on your machine using scrap fabric.

You can use this stitch on any type of fabric.

Best for: most common stitch

• Straight stitch— This is a common stitch on a sewing machine. Lengthen the stitches for gathering and basting, and shorten them for lightweight and silky fabrics.

This stitch allows seams to stretch without resistance.

Best for: knits and elastic

• Zig zag— A back-and-forth stitch is helpful when sewing knits and elastic, as it allows the seams to stretch without resistance

Suitable for finishing raw edges

Best for: prevents fraying

• Overlock—A great alternative to using a serger, this method finishes the raw edges and prevents fraying.

Buttonhole stitches require the use of a special attachment for sewing.

Best for: buttonholes

• Buttonhole— A pre-programmed setting on your sewing machine creates a narrow zig zag stitch that prevents the edges of your buttonholes from fraying.

Buttonhole attachment

Best for: buttonholes

Straight stitches that prevent seams from unraveling.

Best for: securing seams

• Backstitch—A straight stitch should be sewn backward at both the beginning and end of the fabric to secure the seams and prevent unraveling.

You can remove loose stitches once your garment is complete.

Best for: temporary stitches

• Basting— long loose stitch creates a temporary hold and can be removed once your garment is complete.

What is the easiest stitch to sew?

The straight stitch is the easiest to learn, as it consists of a series of straight stitches. This type of stitch is essential, as it is the most commonly used technique in sewing. Pro tip: You can apply this stitch to any type of fabric; just remember to adjust the width and length according to the fabric's weight.

When would you use a zig zag stitch?

Using a zigzag stitch is primarily beneficial for sewing materials that require stretch, such as knits and elastic. Additionally, it can be used to secur seams, preventing fraying, and to attach trim.

What is the best sewing machine stitch to stop fraying?

• Tip 1 Picking shears— These shears feature a serrated edge that produces a zigzag finish that prevents fraying.

• Tip 2 Overlock stitch — A great alternative to a serger is a combination of a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch, which creates a finished edge that prevents fraying.

• Tip 3 Serger — A machine designed to wrap stitches around the edge creating a neat, finished edge that prevents fraying.

• Tip 4 Zigzag Stitch — The zigzag stitches will secure the edges, providing a quick method to prevent fraying.

So there you have it! Once you master these six sewing stitches, you can tailor your technique to fit the specific project you are working on. Remember, with practice, you will achieve neater finishes, so be gentle with yourself. I hope you have fun experimenting! Please let me know in the comments which sewing machine stitch you find most challenging. For me, it would be buttonholes.