Stem stitch is a classic stitch for hand sewing. But I was thinking, can I do the stem stitch in the regular sewing machine?
Ye, you can recreate the stem stitch on a sewing machine. You can mimic the look by using a narrow zigzag stitch or by manually guiding the fabric to imitate the overlapping, twisted effect of a classic stem stitch.
So, how to do a stem stitch by machine?
Stem Stitch
To do a stem stitch by machine, use a narrow zigzag stitch and gently guide the fabric to create a twisted, overlapping line.
Interesting right? Now let’s do it.
Table of Contents
Can I Do Stem Stitch By Machine For Embroidery?
Yes, you can do a stem stitch by machine for embroidery. You just need a longer stitch and perfect machine settings. For greater control, some embroiderers use free-motion stitching to replicate the curved. This is kinda like flatlock sewing machine.
Now the question is, what machine can do it? Well, there is another thing is not all machines can do. You need a special sewing machine to mimic a stem stitch. Some reliable models that can replicate a stem stitch include:
- Brother CS7000X, Brother XR9550
- Singer Quantum Stylist 9960
- Janome Magnolia 7330
- Bernina 570QE with embroidery module
Those machines are perfect for any machine embroidery stitches. Buying one means a huge opportunity for decoration. You can try it as a whip stitch sewing machine, too.
How To Do A Stem Stitch By Machine?
To do a stem stitch by machine, follow the below 7 steps,
Set Up Embroidery Foot For Stem Stitch
I’m starting fresh on a new quilt, a big one, with a lot of appliqué. For the vines, instead of doing bias binding, I want something visually bold but still delicate… and that’s where the machine stem stitch comes in.
I pop on my open-toe embroidery foot so I can see exactly where the needle hits. Then, on my Bernina, I select stitch #713.
This one mimics a hand stem stitch beautifully. If your machine doesn’t have that exact stitch, look for a decorative stitch that has overlapping or slanted lines.
Set Up The Stem Stitch Length
I like to keep it narrow around 1.0 to 5.0 mm, depending on how thick you want the line to appear. Set it to 0 mm (basically running straight stitch). The length is suitable for double overlock stitch too
It’s best for a neat, flowing line. Shorter lengths create more curve control, while longer stitches are better suited for straighter paths. And then keep the thread tensions around 6–7.
Load the Quilt & Stabilise
I lay the quilt top flat and use a stabiliser underneath if it’s a light fabric. For this project, the layers are thick enough, so no stabilizer needed. I just make sure everything’s basted properly so there’s no puckering. You will find it beside the sewing machine blanket stitch symbol.
Guide The Quilt Under The Needle
I gently guide the quilt under the needle, letting the machine run its seven-part stem stitch cycle. It loads 7 layers of thread on top of each other to create a beautiful, thick line that resembles handwork. But better.
I keep count:
One… two… three… four… five… six… seven.
Then I pivot. Yes, I love the auto-pivot lift. It raises the foot slightly at each pause, allowing me to turn the fabric with ease and makes the perfect mimic of Hand Embroidery.
Select Pattern Repeat 1 To Make A Raised Stem Stitch Band
If I want the machine to pause automatically after one repeat, I go into the settings and select Pattern Repeat: 1.
That way it sews exactly 7 stitches, then stops so I can reposition the fabric for the next segment. It is perfect for me when I’m working with curves or intricate shapes. You can use this technique for surface embroidery, too.
Repeat and Pivot
I continue this motion,
stitch → pivot → stitch → pivot.
The line builds up so smoothly and heavily that it almost feels embossed. And because I’m using a thick 12 wt thread, the dimension is stunning. You can back stitch to secure it.
Whenever I want absolute control, I slow it down and use the needle-down feature, so the needle always stays in the fabric when I stop. It helps keep curves smooth and consistent.
How To Do A Stem Stitch By Machine Pdf
How To Do A Stem Stitch By Machine Youtube
Stem appliqué stitch on my Bernina machine. A beautiful heavy straight stitch using 12 wt thread .
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stem stitch curves with a machine?
Yes! If your machine has automatic pivot or needle-down features, use them. They allow you to turn fabric easily and maintain a smooth line on curves.
Do I need stabilizer?
Only if your fabric is thin or stretchy. For quilting cotton or layered quilts, it’s often stable enough. For delicate fabric, use a tear-away or cut-away stabilizer underneath.
How do I stop the machine from over-stitching?
Use your machine’s Pattern Repeat feature (if available). Set it to complete just one cycle of the stitch. Then it stops so you can pivot and reposition.
Final Thoughts
And that’s it. My technique creates a bold, decorative stem stitch using just my sewing machine. It’s precise, looks hand-done, and adds serious detail to appliqué work. If you have decorative stitches on your machine and a thick thread you love, give it a try.
You’ll be hooked, just like I was.
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