I learned so many sewing stitches by now. But I forgot to learn how to hand sew a running stitch; teach me now, Grandma.
-You always forgot the common type of hand stitch, right?
Ok listen
Hand Sew Running Stitch
To hand sew a running stitch, simply weave your needle in and out of the fabric in a straight line, making evenly spaced stitches.
That’s so basic, I know. So, let’s teach you How to do a running stitch by hand step by step?
My Running Stitch Experience:
I tried running a stitch that day with 11-size needles and 1 strand of cotton thread. It felt easier for me, so I gave ⅕ 15-inch gap, which turned out to be the perfect running stitch.
Table of Contents
What Is A Running Stitch Used For?
Running stitches are used in hand-sewing and tailoring to make basic seams, hems, and gathers. They are also used in hand patchwork to join pieces of light fabric and in quilting to keep the fabric layers and batting in place. Loosely spaced rows of short running stitches can support padded stitches.
How To Hand Sew A Running Stitch?
To hand sew a running, you need to follow the 3 steps.
- Mark The Fabric For Running Stitch
- Make The First Running Stitch
- Secure The Running Stitch
Mark The Fabric For Running Stitch
To mark the fabric for running stitch you need to decide running stitch length.
The length of a running stitch can vary quite a bit, ranging from as small as 1/16” to as large as 1/2” (2 mm to 1 cm). Typically, though, a standard simple stitch, or straight stitch, falls somewhere between ⅛ inch and ¼ inches (3 mm to 6 mm).
-Which distance should I go for?
-As a beginner, go about a 1/4 inch (6 mm) stitch length.
Now, let’s teach you how to hand sew a running stitch.
Make The First Running Stitch
To make the first running stitch, put your threaded needle into the wrong side from the mark point and bring it up to the right side. Just like pick stitch. That’s the starting point of sewing stitch. This is the most basic sewing stitch and temporary stitch. This way, the knot will be hidden underneath and won’t show in the final product.
Note: Now, if you’re right-handed, you’ll work the previous stitch from right to left. If you’re left-handed, you’ll go in the opposite direction, from left to right.
Next, put the needle back down through the fabric ¼ inches away. You’ve just made your first running stitch!
Now, continue the process until the end.
Secure The Running Stitch
To finish a running stitch, complete your final stitch by bringing the needle to the underside of the fabric. On this underside, pass the needle through the loop of your last stitch to form a small loop, then pass the needle through this loop again to create a knot and pull the thread tight to secure it. Just like you would do in overcast stitch.
For added security, you can make a double knot by repeating the knotting process once more. After tying the knot, trim the excess thread close to the knot, being careful not to cut the knot itself.
If you prefer to hide the tail of the thread, pass the needle through a 1\2 stitch on the underside of the fabric before trimming the thread. This will ensure your simple running stitch is neatly finished and secure.
So, what do you think? Can you do running stitches and sewing projects with my guide?
- Yes, it is super easy.
- Nope, a video tutorial would have helped me a lot.
Which One Right Comment Below!
Still you are in doubt, then watch this video!
Watch The Tutorial
How to Sew: Running Stitch | Hand Basting Tutorial | Sewing for Beginners
Thread And Needle For Running Stitch
According to Skillshare,
The darning needle is perfect for running stitches. Because they are sharp they can easily get through any kind of fabric.
-And what about the size of the sewing needle, Grandma?
-Well, I normally use 10-size darning needles for running. 🪡
-What about the thread, Grandma?
-Any kind of m will do the work, but I normally use 2 strands of each cotton embroidery floss 🧵
Running Stitch Embroidery
Running stitch may seem basic, but you can use this stitch to make some beautiful embroidery work with decorative stitches. Here are a few of my embroidery works using running stitch:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What Is The Best Stitch For Hand Sewing Seams?
The best stitch for hand sewing seams is the backstitch. It is strong and durable, ideal for seams that need to withstand stress and wear. The backstitch creates a continuous line of stitching, providing a sturdy and secure seam that closely resembles machine stitching.
Sum Up
Do you understand how to hand sew a running stitch now?
If yes, then share your running stitch work.
If not, then feel free to reach out, and let’s see how I can help you out with sewing inspo.
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