The Sewing Place

The Emporia => In the wardrobe => Patterns Discussion => Topic started by: sewingj on December 04, 2017, 15:12:13 PM

Title: stay-stitching query
Post by: sewingj on December 04, 2017, 15:12:13 PM
When stay-stitiching a neckline why do patterns tell you to do it in two parts (e.g. shoulder edge to centre front)?

Does it really make a difference?

I`m afraid I usually ignore this and whizz round from shoulder to shoulder
Title: Re: stay-stitching query
Post by: toileandtrouble on December 04, 2017, 16:22:43 PM
Moving the fabric throught the machine pulls it slightly.  The stress will be even on both sides if you do it in two parts so it keeps it symmetrical. (there's probably a neater way to say this)
Title: Re: stay-stitching query
Post by: jen on December 04, 2017, 17:35:32 PM
Instead of stay stitching I use a narrow masking tape in the seam allowance on many necklines in difficult stretchy fabric, putting it on the cloth before lifting the cut pieces from the table. It's especially useful on long Vee necklines and wrap overs.
Title: Re: stay-stitching query
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on December 04, 2017, 17:42:13 PM
I can't really help as I treat stay stitching as an optional extra - I don't generally do it  :|  Seems to work out ok  :)
Title: Re: stay-stitching query
Post by: Morgan on December 04, 2017, 18:38:45 PM
When stay-stitiching a neckline why do patterns tell you to do it in two parts (e.g. shoulder edge to centre front)?
Does it really make a difference?


It's called Directional Stitching (and includes stay stitching)
It from Couture sewing methods and the purpose is to ensure accuracy and minimise distortion (especially when the fabric edge is off the grain as with curves) to help produce a high quality garment.
It's one of a range of techniques used to control the effect of the machine's feed dogs on fabric, especially fine or stretchy fabrics.  As machine technology has improved over the years, especially on high end machines, the tendency for distortion or fabric creep has reduced.  Even so, it's useful to know when to pull it out of the tool kit when it matters or you have a troublesome fabric.
http://yesterdaysthimble.com/directional-stitching/ (http://yesterdaysthimble.com/directional-stitching/)
https://www.thespruce.com/basic-directional-stitching-2978446 (https://www.thespruce.com/basic-directional-stitching-2978446)







Title: Re: stay-stitching query
Post by: sewingj on December 04, 2017, 18:51:58 PM
Thanks All
I am trying to sew "properly" these days so I guess I had better start doing it!
Title: Re: stay-stitching query
Post by: SkoutSews on December 04, 2017, 20:38:57 PM
Sewingj, thank you for asking this, I've learnt a lot.  There's useful information in those replies, proper sewing knowledge indeed.  Just what I need and look for on TSP.