How to Hand Sew a Prick Stitch

The prick stitch is used to reinforce a seam while adding detail to a garment. It is a variation of the back stitch. You can use the prick stitch to keep facings and linings from rolling. You can also use it to sew in a zipper by hand. While it is easy to do, you need to exercise a bit of patience. The process can be very time consuming. If you follow these instructions on how to sew a prick stitch, you will be able to make beautiful garments by hand.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Needle
• Thread
• Garment or Fabric

1. Thread your needle. Knot the two ends together. You need to have a double thread coming through the needle.

2. Sew the fabric right to left if you are right handed. If you are left handed, you will sew left to right.

3. 
    

   Pull the needle and thread through the fabric or layers of fabric. Sew this where you want to place a visible seam.

4. 
    

   Start your next stitch just a few threads away from your previous thread. The needle should just prick the fabric.

5. 
    

   Make a 1/8 to 1/4 inch stitch. Bring the needle through the fabric again. You are essentially pricking the fabric with each stick.

6. 
    

   Continue making your prick stitch in a straight line. It may be helpful to place a rubber ball under your fabric. Alternately, you could use an upholstery frame.

Tips & Warnings

• A prick stitch should be sewn taut, but the fabric should not gather.
• Don't prick your fingers. Protect your fingertips when doing the prick stitch by using a thimble.