Slip Tacking Stitch| 4 Steps Slip Tacking Stitch Process

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I really love all types of tacking stitches. Cause they are all fun and so quick. You can do it whenever you feel like holding something for a few minutes and doing a tacking stitch. But then slip tacking stitch name comes up, and I wouldn’t understand it. Cause wherever I searched, slip stitch came up. 😑

There is nothing much about slip tack stitch. So, I got confused and thought maybe it wasn’t a thing. But then grandma came and said there was a slip tack stitch. Here is how to do-

Slip Tacking

To create a slip tacking stitch by hand, insert the needle through the fabric layers in small, discreet stitches, ensuring the thread remains hidden on the front side for a neat finish.

There isn’t much talk about it cause people think slip stitch and slip tack stitch are the same. But that’s not the reality. You will understand when I show you practically.

At a glance:

  1. Slip tacking stitch is a combination of 2 stitch.
  2. You can do slip tacking stitches in just 3 steps.
  3. End the slip stitch with a knot.
Slip Tacking Stitch

What Is Slip Tacking Stitch By Hand?

Slip tacking stitch is actually a mix of slip stitch and tacking stitch. It involves taking small, hidden stitches through the folded edge of the fabric and only catching a few threads of the underlying fabric.

What Is Slip Tacking Stitch By Hand

This method creates an almost invisible seam on the front side. This Sewing Stitches Used For hems, linings, or securing appliqués without visible stitching.

How To Do Slip Tacking Stitch?

To do slip tacking stitch, follow 3 steps,

  1. Fold The Hem
  2. Push The Needle Through The Folded Edge
  3. Create A Loop To Knot Slip Tacking Stitch
How To Do Slip Tacking Stitch

Fold The Hem

First, fold your hem—about ¼ inches works well. Press the fold to create a crisp edge. Kinda like doing tailor tacking stitch. Next, cut a piece of thread about 2 or 3 times the length of your hem and thread your needle. Tie a knot at the end, and make sure that the knot is hidden inside the fold.

However, ting knot depends on the uses of tacking stitch.

Fold The Hem

You’ll be working from the right side of the fabric, so insert the needle through the hem fold from the back, keeping that knot tucked away.

Push The Needle Through The Folded Edge

Push your needle along the folded edge of the hem and gently pick up a few threads from the fabric underneath. This is totally the opposite of uneven tacking stitch design

You need to return to the exit point of the folded edge. You only need to catch a tiny bit of the base fabric. 

Push The Needle Through The Folded Edge

When you pull the needle through, ensure it comes out just under the fold, leaving only a small part of the thread visible. Each stitch should be ½ inch away from each other.

This subtle technique keeps your slip tacking stitch discreet. It gives your hem a clean, professional finish without any visible stitching on the front.

Create A Loop To Knot Slip Tacking Stitch

To do this, pick up just the folded edge of the fabric one last time with your needle. Create a loop by pulling the thread through, but don’t pull it tight yet.

Instead, gently pull the needle through the loop you’ve made to form a knot. This will secure your stitches in place.

Create A Loop To Knot Slip Tacking Stitch

For extra security,

You can repeat this step once more to tie another knot. This is kind of like a bar-tacking stitch. Once you’re happy with the knot’s security, trim any excess thread, and you’re all set! This ensures that your hem looks neat and will hold up beautifully.

So, that’s how your slip tacking stitch works. If you want more visual guides, then watch this video.

Watch The Tutorial

Slip Tacking Stitch Patterns

Slip tack stitch may seem simple, but you can still try a few patterns with it. Here are a few I have tried and love it-

Slip Tacking Stitch Patterns
  1. Curved Hem Slip Tacking: I experimented with this on a rounded hemline, like the bottom of a dress. By carefully adjusting the tension and spacing, I kept the curve smooth and seamless, which made the dress look more polished.
  2. Double Slip Tacking: I tried a double slip tacking pattern where I went over each stitch twice for added security. This worked wonders on thicker fabrics, ensuring everything stayed in place without any risk of unraveling.
  3. Decorative Slip Tacking: I even ventured into using colored thread for decorative slip tacking on the edges of a quilt. The contrast added a fun pop of color while maintaining the stitch’s neatness.
  4. Invisible Slip Tacking: I focused on minimizing the stitches’ visibility on a lightweight fabric by taking smaller bites into the base fabric. This technique gave me a beautifully finished look, perfect for sheer materials.

Trying out these different slip tacking patterns has elevated my sewing projects, making them look more professional and well-finished! If you wanna try something more professional, then try French tack sewing.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

When Should I Use A Slip Tacking Stitch?

Use a slip tacking stitch for hemming garments, finishing edges, or securing linings without visible stitching on the front side. It’s great for lightweight and delicate fabrics.

How Do I Ensure My Stitches Are Invisible?

To make your stitches invisible, pick up only a few threads from the base fabric and keep the stitches small and evenly spaced. The key is to hide the knot and the stitches within the fold.

Can I Use Slip Tacking On Thick Fabrics?

Yes, slip tacking can be used on thicker fabrics, but you may want to take larger or double the stitches for added security to ensure everything stays in place.

Now It’s Your Time To Slip Tacking Stitch

I bet now you know how to do slip tacking stitches.

So, now it’s your turn to do it. And let us know how our guide works as your sewing inspiration.

Maisha Soumee

Maisha Soumee

Hi there! I’m Maisha Soumee, the proud torchbearer of our family’s sewing legacy and the driving force behind this website. With Grandma Manha’s teachings as my foundation, I’m honored to continue the tradition of craftsmanship and creativity. As a passionate seamstress, I’m dedicated to sharing the joy of sewing with you, our valued community.

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