Proper Techniques for Ending a Stitch: Tips for Sewing Professionals

Sewing involves a variety of techniques, one of which is ending a stitch. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewist, it's crucial to know the best methods to secure your work and prevent unraveling. This article will explore different techniques for ending a seam, specifically focusing on backstitching. By mastering these methods, you can ensure a neater and stronger finish on your projects.

Backstitch Method

The backstitch is a reliable technique for securing the end of a seam. It helps to reinforce the stitches and prevent unraveling. When you reach the end of your fabric, you can continue to sew a 1/8 inch after ending your regular seam. This additional length helps to prevent unraveling and adds strength to the finished product. Always backstitch to ensure a strong and durable seam.

Back Tacking

To end a seam more simply, you can reverse a few stitches or back tack to stop the stitches from coming out. This method is straightforward and effective. Most sewing machines have a button that reverses the direction of sewing, so you can just hit that button at the beginning and end of every seam to sew backwards three or four stitches.

Professional Backstitching Method

For those who prefer a more advanced method, professional seamstresses may use a technique where they sew back and forth, creating a stronger and neater finish. Instead of starting at the fabric's edge, you can start half an inch in. Sew a single stitch then hit the back button to backstitch to the edge. Go forward and finish your seam. This method ensures that you have two layers of backstitches, which are more durable and less prone to unraveling.

Couture Technique

For a more time-consuming but effective method, couturiers may use a specialized technique to eliminate bulk at the seams. When starting a seam, reduce the stitch length to 1 or 1.5. Sew about half an inch, then increase the stitch length to the usual 2.5. About half an inch from the end of the seam, stop and reduce the stitch length again, creating smaller stitches at the end. This technique helps to prevent bulk and ensures a neat finish.

Additional Tips for Sewing Ends

Depending on the type of seam you're working on and the purpose of the stitching, you may have different options for ending a stitch.

Ending a Simple Seams

If you're just sewing a seam that will be sewn across again, such as a seam in a garment, you can simply sew off the end of the seam and trim your threads. No additional security is needed since the seam will be sewn again.

Topstitching Finishes

For topstitching and a nice finish, you can go to the back of the fabric and use the bobbin thread to pull the top thread through the seam. Knot the thread off and trim the excess. This method ensures a smooth and professional-looking topstitch.

Strong Seam Ends

If you want a very strong end to your seam, you can sew to the end of the seam, backstitch over your last few stitches, and then go forward again. This method creates three layers of overlapping stitches, making it extremely durable. It would be challenging to unravel such a well-secured seam.

Mastering the art of ending a stitch is essential for achieving professionally finished projects. By using these techniques, such as backstitching, back tacking, and advanced methods like those used in couture, you can ensure that your seams are strong, neat, and enduring. Each method has its unique benefits, making them suitable for different projects and needs.