Hand-Sewing (Junior Cert Home Economics): Revision Notes

Hand-Sewing

Hand-Sewing Stitches

Tacking

• A temporary stitch used to hold fabric in place before sewing it permanently.
• Pin the fabric, use large, visible stitches, and remove them once finished.

Running Stitch

• A small, simple stitch that runs evenly through the fabric.
• Often used for seams or decorative embroidery.
• Stitches do not overlap.

Gathering

• Used to create fullness in fabric, e.g. skirts or curtains.
• Sew two rows of long stitches along the fabric and pull the thread to gather.

Backstitch

• A strong, secure stitch for seams when no machine is available.
• Sew back into the end of the previous stitch to create a continuous, strong line.

Hemming

• Used to finish hems neatly on tablecloths, trousers, or skirts.
• Work small, even stitches along the folded edge of the fabric.

Slip Hemming

• An almost invisible stitch for hems on clothing.
• Sew loose stitches through the fold, keeping them small, so they don't show on the outside.