Lesson on The Running Stitch

The Running Stitch is a simple little stitch that was commonly used to finish the hem of a daygown.  It is the way I finished the hem of the Priscilla Daygown.  It would not be used for hems of older children. It is made by weaving (or running) a needle in and out of the fabric several times before pulling the thread through.  Stitches for the hem should be small and even.  Use an 11 Sharps needle and white  DMC # 50 thread.

Click on Photos to Enlarge.

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Dark thread has been used for demonstration purposes.

Begin the stitch with a tiny knot or back stitch hidden in the hem.

 

To work the stitch, hold the fabric over your hand to keep tension on the fabric.

Run the thread through the fabric several times and then pull it through. Stitch through all the layers of fabric in the hem.

Use a thimble to push the needle through the fabric for quicker results and to protect your finger.

Be sure to smooth the fabric out after each set of stitches to keep it smooth.

Be sure to keep the stitches nice and even.  Smooth the fabric so stitches don't pucker in your hem.

Hems where the running stitch was used to bring out the color of the blue appliqued hem. 

When worked with two or three strands of embroidery floss, it makes a nice and easy embroidery stitch.  The more strands of floss used, the farther apart your stitches will be.