Hand Sewing Exercise #1: Backstitch

Watch this video for a demonstration of how to execute the Backstitch.

Video Note: I apologize for the delay between the video and audio... I'm working on sorting this out!

Backstitch

The backstitch is a strong and secure way to hand sew a seam and connect two pieces of fabric together along their edges. This is the type of stitch that would have historically been used to construct most seams in garments before the invention of the sewing machine. The extra loop that is formed with each stitch makes the seam very strong and secure. The shorter the stitches you make the more secure the seam will be.

NOTE: In the demo video I make my stitches 1/4" ... this is pretty fast and good for practice. In the PDF below they suggest a smaller stitch. You can choose what width you want to use, just try to be consistent from one side to the other.

You can review or print this PDF for reference while you create your sample of the Backstitch.

FASH70A_Hand_Backstitch.pdf

Now it's Your Turn!

Use two of your 6"x7" rectangles to practice the Backstitch.

Your fabric should be arranged with right sides together and the raw edges should be lined up even with each other
Be sure to stitch along the 7" edge and use a seam allowance of 1/2". As you see in the video, I suggest marking the stitchline so that I can be sure to go in a straight line.
Practice your knotting and tying off a the start and end of the seam. After you finish sewing, you should take your sample to the iron and press it flat first to lock your stitches, then press the seam allowances open.

Click Next to continue to the next Hand Sewing Exercise