Machines & tools

A long, loose straight stitch used to temporarily hold fabric layers together for fitting or easing before permanent stitching is sewn.

A stitch pattern combining several straight stitches with a single zigzag jog, used with a folded hem to catch fabric almost invisibly from the right side.

A narrow, dense zigzag stitch sewn in a rectangular path with bar tacks at each end to create a reinforced opening for a button.

A tightly spaced zigzag stitch dense enough to form a smooth, solid line of thread, used for applique edges, monograms, and buttonholes.

The distance the feed dogs advance fabric between needle penetrations, typically measured in millimeters, adjustable for basting, regular sewing, or reinforcement stitching.

The most basic machine stitch, formed by a single needle thread interlocking with a bobbin thread in a straight line, used for most seams and construction.

The balance of pull applied to the upper and lower threads so they interlock at the midpoint of the fabric layers, producing an even, flat stitch.

A stitch that swings side to side as it forms, used for finishing raw edges, sewing stretch fabrics, and decorative topstitching.