Temporary Stitch/Basting

Hand stitching is divided into temporary and permanent stitches. Temporary stitches are removed during construction or after the garment is finished. The most common term for temporary stitching is basting. Basting usually consists of stitches that are larger and farther apart than permanent stitches, often in a color of thread that contrasts with the fabric of the garment. Temporary stitches are used for fittings, marking of the garment, and holding layers of fabric together during the construction of the garment.

EVEN BASTING

Even basting is a series of stitches that are even in length with a 3/8-inch pickup. This stitch is commonly used during garment construction. Even basting is also used for easing the fabric to match the length of another layer of fabric and for gathering fabric. Using a simple knot at the beginning and the end works well with even basting. Later the knot can be cut off.

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