8 Couture Stitches for Fierce Handmade Garments

couture stitching lace

We’re all about getting the most out of your sewing machine, but once you start working away from it, you’re likely to fall in love with the precision and pace of couture hand sewing. So go on and thread a small needle (a size 9 or 10) and start practicing these basic couture stitches. Then try them out on your next handmade garment!

Pro Tip: Before you begin, your single strand of high-quality thread needs to be ready for smooth stitching. Run it over a cake of beeswax, then lay the coated thread on a paper towel and press with a warm iron to meld the wax. Now you’re ready to stitch!

1. Running Stitch

couture running stitch

Use a running stitch for basting, thread tracing and gathering fabric. Because this stitch is mostly used to hold layers of fabric together, it doesn’t need to be perfectly uniform — meaning you can work quickly.

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2. Hand Overcasting

hand overcast stitch

Hand overcasting is used to edge-finish seam allowances on unlined garments. Just make this stitch slightly loose, so the garment seam allowances don’t pull and hang incorrectly from the right side.

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3. Backstitch

hand backstitching

Fun fact: this extra-strong stitch was used to assemble garments by hand before sewing machines came on the scene. So it makes sense that it still works well for hand stitching seams, securing thread when you don’t want a knot, hand-picking zippers and making decorative topstitching. A tell-tale sign you’re doing it right? On the underside of the fabric, the stitch should look similar to a chain.

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4. Catch Stitch

couture catch stitch

Use the catch stitch for hemming, tacking a facing at the seam edge and securing a seam allowance to an underlining. This stitch is worked from left to right, and when done correctly, will form small Xs. It also has some built-in elasticity, so it’s great for hems, tacking and sewing knits.

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5. Herringbone Stitch

couture herringbone stitch

You might recognize this stitch from hand embroidery , but it’s also a great option for couture sewing. Herringbone stitch holds the fabric flat while still providing plenty of give for movement (something that’s super important for clothing, naturally).

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6. Blind Hem Stitch

couture blind hem stitch

This is another great stitch for hems, and when done correctly it’s practically invisible on your garment. The key is to pick up just a few fibers of your fabric as you stitch — when done in a thread matching your fabric, these tiny stitches won’t show.

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7. Flat-Fell Stitch

couture flat fell stitch

Flat-fell stitch is known for its strength and widely used to secure a lining in place, so it’s a go-to for couture dresses and skirts.

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8. Buttonhole Stitch

couture buttonhole stitch

This hand stitch is a bit complicated when you’re first learning, but it’s the best way to secure garment fasteners like hooks and eyes . Once you get the hang of it, it’ll feel similar to creating a blanket stitch.

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One Response to “8 Couture Stitches for Fierce Handmade Garments”

  1. chrishargan@aol.com

    These "couture stitches" are very basic stitches that I learned as a child! perhaps the meaning of couture has changed?