Sewing: when to back stitch/back tack?
 

I am a brand new sewer. I am taking a sewing class, but it is a bit overwhelming & I sometimes don't get to ask all my questions.

I am making a simple skirt. It has pleats in front & back, which I have sewn. The directions then call to topstich the pleats down on the right side of the fabric. Ok--I can do that, but am I supposed to backstitch at the beg. and end of each pleat? That won't look so great, I think, being that it is on the right side of the fabric. But if I don't backstitch, will the thread start to unravel eventually?

Does that make sense?

I guess I am asking--as a rule when does one backstitch and when does one NOT backstitch?

I went looking on the web, but can't find my answer.

Thanks.

I think it is actually a very good question. I personally almost never backstitch to secure my threads. In your situation I would use the 'stop' button on my machine, which takes three tiny almost in the same place stitches to 'lock' the stitches. If you don't have a function like this, you can also set the stitch length to almost zero for the first few stitches, then continue topstitching with a normal or slightly longer stitch length. If you are starting at the top of the pleat, just change the stitch length at the end of your topstitching.

Some people might suggest holding the fabric and not allowing it to feed to take several tiny stitches in place. This can screw up the timing on your machine, probably not the first time but I think it is a bad habit to start. It is not as easy to control precisely either.

Do you know how to pull the top thread through so you don't have that little tail where the stitching starts? Turn your skirt over, find the bobbin thread, and pull gently. You will see a little loop appear, that is the top thread. Stick a needle or seam ripper point in the loop and pull the thread through. Then tie it off with an overhand knot and clip.

With this kind of attention to detail, you are already a great sewing mama!

Thanks so much!

Hey--your answer actually made sense, so I must be learning something! I'll go try what you suggested.

I think the instructor takes it for granted that we all know the basics, but actually, most of us don't know much at all about sewing!

Thanks again,

QTB

Hi QTB!
Where are you taking your sewing class? I've been sewing for a while, but being self-taught I'd like to learn some of the tricks of the trade that I've missed along the way. I don't have a car, so I'm looking for something DART accessible.

I'm taking it at the JoAnns on 273. The class is 3 hours long and meets for 3 sessions. It is $60, plus materials. You would probably take Sewing 2, however--sewing 1 is for the kind of people who don't know what a bobbin is. :bag:

The teacher is OK. The second class was fine, but the first one, she spent almost the whole time giving us her background info. I never get out of my house to do something for just me & I was so excited to take this class! I didn't need quite so much biography. . . :eyesroll