Stitches: (Temporary and Permanent) Basic 6 Home Economics Lesson Note

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Explain types of stitches
• Classify stitches into groups or types

Lesson Content

What are Stitches?

Stitches are techniques used to join pieces of fabric together using thread and needle. They form the foundation of all sewing and clothing construction. Stitches can be made by hand or by machine.

Classification of Stitches

Stitches are mainly classified into two major groups:

1. TEMPORARY STITCHES

Temporary stitches are used to hold fabric pieces together temporarily during construction. They are usually removed after the permanent stitching is completed.

Characteristics of Temporary Stitches:

• Made with contrasting colored thread for easy identification
• Loosely done for easy removal
• Used during fitting and construction process
• Not meant to last permanently
• Usually done by hand

Types of Temporary Stitches:

1. Tacking/Basting Stitch

• Purpose: Hold fabric layers together temporarily
• Method: Long, loose running stitches
• Uses: Temporary seaming, marking lines, holding facings
• Thread: Contrasting color for easy removal

1. Tailor’s Tacking

• Purpose: Transfer pattern markings to fabric
• Method: Loop stitches through pattern and fabric layers
• Uses: Mark darts, buttonholes, pocket positions
• Thread: Soft cotton thread in bright colors

1. Slip Tacking

• Purpose: Match patterns and stripes accurately
• Method: Small stitches on right side of fabric
• Uses: Matching plaids, stripes, and patterns
• Thread: Fine thread matching fabric color

1. Diagonal Tacking

• Purpose: Hold interfacing to fabric
• Method: Diagonal stitches across the fabric
• Uses: Attach interfacing, hold layers flat
• Thread: Matching or contrasting thread

2. PERMANENT STITCHES

Permanent stitches are used to join fabric pieces together permanently. They form the final construction of garments and should be strong and durable.

Characteristics of Permanent Stitches:

• Made with thread matching fabric color
• Done securely and neatly
• Meant to last the lifetime of the garment
• Can be done by hand or machine
• Should be appropriate for fabric type and use

Types of Permanent Stitches:

1. Running Stitch

• Purpose: Basic joining stitch
• Method: Even stitches going in and out of fabric
• Uses: Plain seams, gathering, quilting
• Strength: Moderate

1. Back Stitch

• Purpose: Strong joining stitch
• Method: Stitching backward to create continuous line
• Uses: Strong seams, topstitching, hand-sewn seams
• Strength: Very strong

1. Overcast Stitch

• Purpose: Finish raw edges to prevent fraying
• Method: Diagonal stitches over the edge
• Uses: Edge finishing, seam finishing
• Strength: Good for finishing

1. Blanket Stitch

• Purpose: Decorative edge finishing
• Method: Loop stitch along the edge
• Uses: Edge finishing, appliqué, decorative work
• Strength: Decorative and functional

1. Hemming Stitches

• Purpose: Secure hems invisibly
• Method: Small stitches catching few fabric threads
• Uses: Skirt hems, trouser hems, curtain hems
• Strength: Secure but invisible

1. Buttonhole Stitch

• Purpose: Reinforce buttonhole openings
• Method: Close blanket stitches
• Uses: Making buttonholes, bar tacks
• Strength: Very strong and secure

Key Differences Between Temporary and Permanent Stitches

When to Use Each Type

Use Temporary Stitches When:

• Fitting garments before final sewing
• Marking pattern details on fabric
• Holding pieces together for trial fitting
• Transferring construction marks
• Testing design changes

Use Permanent Stitches When:

• Creating final seams in garments
• Finishing edges and hems
• Attaching buttons and fasteners
• Making decorative elements
• Constructing lasting items

Tools Needed for Stitching

Basic Tools:

• Needles (various sizes)
• Thread (cotton, polyester)
• Scissors (fabric and paper)
• Pins and pin cushion
• Thimble
• Measuring tape
• Seam ripper

Additional Tools:

• Sewing machine (for machine stitches)
• Iron and ironing board
• Marking tools (chalk, fabric markers)
• Pattern paper
• Fabric

Multiple Choice Exercise – Week 8

1. Which type of stitch is removed after sewing is complete? a) Permanent stitch b) Temporary stitch c) Decorative stitch d) Machine stitch 
2. What color thread is usually used for temporary stitches? a) Matching the fabric b) Always white c) Contrasting/bright colors d) Always black 
3. Which stitch is used to transfer pattern markings? a) Running stitch b) Tailor’s tacking c) Back stitch d) Hemming stitch 
4. Permanent stitches should be: a) Loose and quick b) Neat and secure c) Easy to remove d) Made with bright thread 
5. Which of these is a permanent stitch? a) Tacking stitch b) Slip tacking c) Back stitch d) Diagonal tacking 

Answers: 1-b, 2-c, 3-b, 4-b, 5-c

Homework – Week 8

1. Define temporary and permanent stitches.
2. List 3 types of temporary stitches and their uses.
3. Name 4 permanent stitches and explain when to use them.
4. Explain why temporary stitches use contrasting thread colors.
5. Practice making running stitches and tacking stitches on fabric scraps.