Hand Sewing

The Running Stitch

When hand sewing, it is important that you feel relaxed and comfortable where you are going to sit and sew.  Make sure you have plenty of time and do not rush your work. Work in good lighting with no shadows.  You will want to make sure everything is at arms reach. Your thread should be 12-18 inches long.  Any longer threads will make your head, back, and neck move, and may interrupt your movement or "rhythm" of which you are stitching.

How to do the Running Stitch - The running stitch is probably the most common hand stitch and is usually used to hold together two pieces of fabric. To make the running stitch you will want to start with a knot at the end of your threads or start by double back stitching to hold it in place.  The running stitch is very easy to do.  As shown above in the photo, take a small or short stitch forward then carry the needle back and forth or in an up and down motion traveling to the left.  You will want to take 3 or 4 tiny steps before you bring up the needle and thread. Your stitches should be small. Finish with a knot or by double back stitching again.