Sewing How To: Running Stitch

A running stitch is the stitch most people know - and a basting stitch is a longer version of a running stitch. A running stitch can be used for most anything - basting stitches are really only used to keep two pieces of fabric together for fitting, applique, or machine sewing when pins would get in the way!

You'll want to start by threading your needle and knotting the end(s) of the thread.

For the running stitch: bring your needle up through the fabric from the back (or wrong side, whichever lingo you prefer) until the knot hits the fabric. At this point, you'll simply make a stitch to the left or right of where the thread came through. Then bring the thread back up and start all over again! (You can either do the standard up and down, or push the needle through and make several stitches at once.) When you come to the end, simply knot on the back side of your work.

For the basting stitch: make longer stitches, between 1/4" and 1/2" in length!

Pictures will make this easier. Follow along, now!

Keep in mind that running and basting stitches should look the same from both sides, and that running stitches work best when they are smaller and closer together - otherwise you can end up with your seams gaping quite a bit.

For more stitches, check here:
https://www.instructables.com/id/Embroidery-101/
https://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Sew./