Backstitching is a sewing technique in which the needle and thread are reversed at the end of a seam to lock the stitches in place. It is often used to reinforce a seam’s beginning and end or secure a pocket opening.
When it comes to sewing, the backstitch is one of the most versatile and essential stitches. It can sew a seam, reinforce a seam, or attach a lining. The backstitch is also great for mending holes or tears in the fabric. So why do you need to know how to backstitch on a sewing machine?
It is a strong stitch that can be used to sew heavy-weight fabrics like denim or canvas. It helps to secure your stitches, so they don’t come undone, especially at high-stress points like pocket openings. It also gives your seams extra strength and durability.
Let’s discuss why use the backstitch and how to do it on a sewing machine.
How To Backstitch On A Sewing Machine
The Backstitching is not as hard as it may seem. Once you get the hang of it, it’s quite easy. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Step 1: Set up your machine for backstitching
Before you can start backstitching on your sewing machine, you need to set it up for success. Here are the steps to take:
- Raise the presser foot lever and remove the presser foot.
- Place the thread through the needle from back to front, then tie a knot at the end of the thread.
- Hold onto the end of the thread and turn the handwheel towards you until the needle is in its highest position.
- Take your time while feeding the thread through all of the tension discs.
- Once the thread is all set, put your presser foot back on and lower the lever.
- Raise the needle to its highest position and turn your handwheel towards you until the needle is in its highest position.
- Lower the presser foot lever and pick up your fabric.
- Start stitching by using a straight stitch, backstitch or running stitch.
Step 2: Sew a few stitches forward
When you’re ready to start backstitching, sew a few stitches forward to get yourself positioned. Then, press the reverse lever or button on your sewing machine. Hold it down while you stitch backwards for a few stitches. Release the reverse lever or button and sew forward to finish your seam.
Step 3: Sew a few stitches in reverse
Sewing a few stitches in reverse is an important step in backstitching on a sewing machine. To secure the end of your seam, sew a few stitches in reverse. It will ensure that your fabric doesn’t unravel. To do this, simply backstitch a few times before moving on to the next step. To sew a few stitches in reverse, simply hold down the reverse lever on the sewing machine and sew for a few stitches. Then release the lever and continue sewing as normal.
Step 4: Tie off the thread
Once you’ve sewn your desired length, it’s time to tie off the thread. To do this, simply sew a few stitches in reverse and then cut the thread, leaving a tail of about an inch. It will help to prevent your stitches from coming undone. To secure the thread even further, you can tie a knot in the end.
Why use the backstitch
Backstitching is a sewing technique used to secure the beginning and end of a seam or to reinforce a particular area of stitching. When should you use backstitching?
- When you begin sewing a seam, backstitch a few stitches to secure the thread.
- If you’re sewing over a particularly thick area, backstitch to reinforce the stitching.
- When you reach the end of a seam, backstitch a few stitches to secure the thread.
- If you need to remove a section of stitching, backstitch on either side of the section you’ll be removed to prevent the fabric from unravelling.
- If you’re sewing multiple seams together, backstitch the beginning and end of each seam.
The above tips apply to sewing on a machine. Most of us sew by hand, and backstitching is the same whether you’re using a needle and thread or a sewing machine.
Conclusion
When it comes to backstitching on a sewing machine, practice really does make perfect. The more you do it, the better you’ll get at creating even, consistent stitches. Start by practising on some scrap fabric before moving on to your final project. That way, you can get a feel for the tension and speed that works best for you. With a little practice, you’ll be backstitching like a pro in no time.
Backstitching is a great option if you’re looking to add a decorative touch to your sewing projects. It’s also relatively easy to do on a sewing machine. In this article, we’ll show you how to backstitch on a sewing machine so you can add something extra special to your next project.
I hope you enjoy this article, and please feel free to leave any questions in the comments section. Happy Sewing!
