Backstitch with Sewing Machine
@EvelynWood
@Let’s Learn To Sew
@SewKnitHome
Step-by-Step Instructions:
The backstitch is a fundamental sewing machine technique used to lock the thread at the beginning and end of a seam. By sewing backward over your first few stitches, you permanently secure the seam so it won’t unravel during wear or washing.
Materials Needed:
- Sewing machine
- Fabric prepared for stitching
- Matching thread
Tips for Success:
- Always hold the thread tails lightly behind the machine when you start stitching to prevent the thread from tangling underneath the fabric.
- If your machine “eats” the fabric when backstitching, start half an inch away from the edge rather than directly on it.
1. Position the Fabric
- Place your fabric under the presser foot, aligning the raw edge with the appropriate seam allowance guide on your machine’s throat plate.
2. Lower the Needle
- Lower the presser foot, and turn the handwheel toward you to drop the needle into the fabric about 1/2 inch away from the top edge.
3. Sew Forward
- Gently press the foot pedal to sew 2 to 3 stitches forward. Stop completely.
4. Press the Reverse Button
- Locate the reverse button or lever on your sewing machine (often marked with a ‘U-turn’ arrow). Press and hold it down.
5. Stitch Backward
- With the reverse button still held down, press the foot pedal again. The machine will sew backward. Reverse for 2 to 3 stitches until you reach the top edge of the fabric.
6. Release and Continue
- Release the reverse button. Press the foot pedal to sew forward again, continuing along your entire seam line. When you reach the end of the fabric, repeat the process (2-3 stitches back, then forward off the edge) to lock the other side.
Top FAQs for The Backstitch:
What happens if I forget to backstitch? +
If you don’t secure the ends of your seam, the thread will easily pull apart and the seam will begin to unravel over time. If you forget, you can manually tie the thread tails together in a knot as a backup.
Do I need to backstitch every single seam? +
No. You only need to backstitch structural seams. You should skip backstitching for basting stitches, gathering stitches, or if the end of the seam will be completely crossed over and enclosed by another seam later in the project.
Why does my thread bunch up when I backstitch? +
This usually happens because you are starting too close to the very edge of the fabric, causing the machine’s feed dogs to push the raw edge down into the throat plate. Start sewing about half an inch inside the fabric, then reverse to the edge.
How many stitches should I reverse? +
Only 2 to 3 stitches are necessary to create a strong lock. Reversing any more than that creates thick, bulky thread knots that can distort your seam or show through to the front of your garment.
Can I backstitch on sheer or delicate fabrics? +
Backstitching on delicate fabrics (like chiffon) can easily chew up the material. Instead of reversing, try lowering your stitch length to 0 (or almost 0) and taking 3 tiny stitches in place to lock the thread without reversing.
How do I backstitch when sewing by hand? +
When hand sewing, a backstitch involves bringing the needle up through the fabric, taking a step backward to insert it into the exact hole of the previous stitch, and then bringing it back up a space ahead. It creates a continuous, incredibly strong line of thread.
