Monday, September 21, 2009

Machine Zigzag Stitch

Sewing & Craft Alliance's Guide to the Zigzag Stitch pdf (many uses, how-to, presser feet, etc.)

Quick Overview:

  • Uses: finishing the raw edges of seam allowances, prevents fraying of raw edges, applique work, hemming, buttonholes, attaching lace or elastic, etc.

  • Length and width of the stitch can be adjusted, depending on your reason for needing the stitch

  • Basic stitch included on almost all sewing machines

  • Requires a presser foot that allows the needle to move side to side

For my Singer Esteem 1732 machine a general purpose presser foot allows for zigzag stitching, in addition to straight stitching.


Adjusting the length of the zigzag stitch:

The length of the zigzag stitch is the distance between the points where the needle penetrates the fabric. Shorter lengths will produce a more dense zigzag pattern.

Zigzag stitch




Increasing the length of the zigzag stitch:



Decreasing the length of the zigzag stitch:




Adjusting the width of the zigzag stitch:

The width of the zigzag stitch determines the coverage. Setting your machine width at zero will produce almost a straight stitch. Usually the settings start at "1" one and increase from there depending on the amount of desired coverage.

Increasing the width of the zigzag stitch:




Decreasing the width of the zigzag stitch:





Don't forget about tension!

The tension should be adjusted so that no thread loops are visible on the top or bottom of your stitching and the fabric shouldn't curl.

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