An over edge stitch, also known as an overcast stitch or whip stitch, is a simple hand sewing stitch used primarily to finish raw edges of fabric. It helps prevent fraying and can also be used to join two edges together.
Here's how to perform a basic over edge stitch by hand:
Purpose of the Over Edge Stitch
The main goal of this stitch is to secure the raw edge of fabric. By wrapping the thread over the edge with each stitch, you create a binding that stabilizes the fabric threads and keeps them from unraveling. It's particularly useful for fabrics that fray easily.
Steps for Doing an Over Edge Stitch
To begin your over edge stitch, you'll want to prepare your needle and thread. Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of your thread.
- Start on the Wrong Side: As highlighted in the reference, begin by bringing your needle up through the wrong side of the fabric, close to the edge. This ensures that your knot is hidden on the wrong side.
- Reference Point: "So i'm going to go through. The wrong side that way my knot is on the wrong. Side..."
- Flip the Fabric: Once your thread is pulled through and the knot is secure on the wrong side, flip your fabric over to the right side.
- Reference Point: "...as i continue the stitch i'm going to flip my fabric onto my right side so i can see my stitches." This allows you to see the edge clearly and place your stitches evenly.
- Make the First Stitch: Insert your needle down through the fabric again, very close to where you came up, but slightly to the side (e.g., a few millimeters away). The needle should go over the raw edge. Bring the needle back up through the fabric from the wrong side to the right side, again close to the edge. You are essentially wrapping the thread over the raw edge.
- Repeat the Stitch: Continue making stitches in the same manner, moving along the edge of the fabric. Insert the needle down through the fabric from the right side, going over the raw edge, and bring it back up from the wrong side to the right side, a consistent distance from the previous stitch and the fabric edge.
- Maintain Consistency: Aim for evenly spaced stitches of uniform length. The thread should lay neatly over the raw edge between each stitch entry point.
- Finishing: When you reach the end of the edge, secure your thread with a knot on the wrong side of the fabric.
Practical Tips
- Use a thread color that matches your fabric if you want the stitches to be less visible, or a contrasting color for decorative effect.
- The distance between stitches and the distance from the edge will affect the look and effectiveness of the stitch. Smaller, closer stitches provide better fray protection.
- This stitch can be done on a single layer of fabric or to neaten the seam allowances of two joined pieces.
By following these steps, starting correctly from the wrong side as described in the reference, you can effectively use the over edge stitch to finish fabric edges.
