Types of Decorative Machine Stitching

There are several types of decorative stitches on a sewing machine.

Even a basic modern machine can sew dozens of decorative stitches. Rows of decorative stitches are an easy and inexpensive way to decorate your sewing projects. Use decorative stitches to create your own trim right on the garment. As of 2011, even inexpensive trim can cost $1 a yard, while a $3 spool of thread will sew hundreds of yards of decorative trim.

Decorative Stretch Stitches

Decorative stretch stitches are used on knits and other stretch fabrics. These stitches will allow the fabric to stretch and move. They are often used to hem the bottom and sleeves on knit shirts. Matching thread is usually used for these hems, but you can create an interesting effect with contrasting thread.

Single-edge Stitches

Single edge stitches have one straight edge and a pattern along the other edge. These stitches often create a row of pictures such as leaves, flowers and even tiny ducks. They are used to decorate the edges of collars and cuffs on children's clothing. Sew them with contrasting thread in a color that suits the pattern.

Band-style Stitches

Band-style stitches have two straight edges. An example of this stitch in the Greek-key stitch. The two straight edges give a row of these stitches the appearance of a strip of decorative ribbon. Band-style stitches look best when sewn an even distance from a straight edge.

Scallop Stitches

Scallop stitches may have one or two scalloped edges. The stitches with one straight edge work best along a straight edge. The stitches with two scalloped edges will also work along a rounded edge. If the scallops on both edges face the same direction, the stitch looks like a row of waves. If the scallops face in opposite directions, the stitch looks like a string of beads. Some scallop stitches are also stretch stitches.

Shell Edging Stitch

Sew a shell edging stitch along the hem of a knit garment to gather the fold into lovely scallops.

Double-needle Stitches

Some decorative stitches can be sewn with a double needle to double the stitch's visual impact. This usually looks best if both needles are threaded with the same color thread.