threading before and after

HAND SEWING BASICS: 6 ESSENTIAL STITCHES FOR YOUR DIY PROJECTS

If you don’t own a sewing machine, you might feel limited in tackling sewing-related DIY home decor projects. But here’s the great news: many stitches can be done by hand! Learning a few essential hand-stitching techniques can unlock countless creative possibilities for projects requiring minimal sewing.

What can hand stitching do for you? For starters, it’s perfect for mending—think fixing small holes in pillows or clothing. But it also paves the way for creating custom fabric DIYs, like hemming too-long curtains or crafting your own pillows.

Below, you’ll find six versatile stitches perfect for various home decor projects, along with step-by-step instructions for each.

Materials You’ll Need for Hand Stitching

  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Scissors

How to Sew a Slip Stitch or Ladder Stitch

The invisible stitch, also known as the ladder stitch, is ideal for closing up handmade pillows or finishing hems. Its discreet nature allows you to create a seamless look. Simply use a thread that matches your fabric, and the result will be nearly undetectable, with only the slightest hint of stitching visible.

ANCHOR THE THREAD

Start by threading your needle and tying a knot at the end of the thread. To keep the knot hidden, insert the needle from the inside of the fabric fold, pulling it through to the front. This ensures your starting point remains invisible within the hem.

START THE FIRST STITCH

Align the needle directly across from where the thread exited the first fold, inserting it into the opposite fold. Push the needle through to the inside, ensuring it pierces the fabric at the same point on both sides. This technique pulls the two fabric edges together seamlessly, making the stitch nearly invisible.

MAKE THE NEXT STITCH 1/8 INCH UP

To continue, move the needle about 1/8 of an inch forward along the same fold and bring it back up through the fabric. This small, precise movement ensures the stitch stays even and discreet while maintaining a strong hold between the two fabric sides.

MOVE THE NEXT STITCH TO THE OTHER SIDE

Pull the thread gently through the stitch you just made, then move the needle across to the opposite fold. Insert it at the exact same point as the previous entry on that side. This consistent alignment ensures the fabric edges come together smoothly and the stitch remains hidden.

Repeat that step.

Pull the thread through to secure the stitch, then repeat the process by moving to the opposite side of the fabric. Insert the needle about 1/8 of an inch forward from the last stitch on that side, maintaining even spacing and alignment to keep the seam neat and invisible. Continue alternating sides in this manner.

CLOSE THE GAP

As you continue stitching, alternating sides evenly, the thread connecting the two fabric edges will resemble the rungs of a ladder. This “ladder” effect ensures the fabric is securely joined while the stitches remain hidden when pulled snugly.

HIDE THE THREAD

To make the stitch completely invisible, pull the tail of your thread taut while gently smoothing out the seam. This tightens the stitches, ensuring they stay hidden within the fabric. For the best results, use a thread that matches the color of your fabric perfectly, making the stitch virtually undetectable.

How to Sew a Running Stitch

Straight stitches, like the ones shown in green thread, are typically used to sew basic seams. When sewn over longer lengths, this stitch can serve as a basting stitch, temporarily holding two pieces of fabric together. For a stronger, more durable seam, use shorter stitches to ensure a tight and secure hold.

ANCHOR THE THREAD

Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. Insert the needle from the backside of the fabric, pulling it through to the front so that the knot remains hidden on the inside. This ensures a clean and neat start to your stitch.

MAKE THE FIRST STITCH

Move about 1/2 inch ahead and push the needle back down through the fabric, bringing it to the backside. This creates the next stitch in the sequence, continuing the straight stitch pattern.

CREATE THE NEXT STITCH 1/2 INCH AWAY

Continuing in a straight line, move the needle forward about 1/2 inch and bring it back up through the fabric to the top. This will create the next stitch, maintaining an even and consistent pattern.

REPEAT UNTIL FINISHED

Continue repeating steps 1 through 3, making sure to keep the stitches evenly spaced as you work along the seam. Once you’re done, your stitches will form a long line of dashes, securing the two pieces of fabric together. This creates a neat and even seam.

How to Sew a Catchstitch

Small, short stitches, like the ones shown in blue, are semi-invisible on the front-facing fabric and work wonderfully for hems. This stitch allows the hem to have a bit of flexibility, making it ideal for circular items like tablecloths. The catstitch technique is also perfect for securing thick facings to hems, such as on a sofa cover, or for attaching a lining to curtains.

ANCHOR THE THREAD

If possible, press your fabric before starting to make it easier to work with. Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. Starting from the left side of the fabric, insert your needle from the underside of the hem to the top, hiding the end knot as it comes through.

MAKE THE FIRST STITCH

Pull the thread through and then bring the needle up over your hem, positioning it about 1/8 of an inch to the right in the top section of the fabric. This ensures that your stitches are small and evenly spaced.

SEND THE THREAD BACK UNDER THE FABRIC

Place the needle in the fabric, pointing back towards the left. Insert it about 1/8 of an inch under the fabric, then bring it back up through the top layer. This creates a small, neat stitch that helps secure the hem in place.

CROSS OVER THE PREVIOUS STITCH

Direct the needle back down towards the bottom section, crossing over the previous stitch in a downward diagonal. This ensures the stitches are secure and aligned, helping to keep the hem in place while maintaining a smooth appearance.

CREATE YOUR FIRST X STITCH

Point the needle towards the right side of the fabric and insert it through about 1/8 of an inch of fabric on the lower section. Pull the thread taut to secure the stitch, revealing your first small, neat stitch.

REPEAT THESE STEPS

Repeat these steps by continuing to direct the needle back up through the top layer, moving 1/8 of an inch forward, then crossing it down diagonally through the bottom layer. Keep pulling the thread taut after each stitch to ensure they are evenly spaced and secure.

How to Sew a Blanket Stitch

The blanket stitch (shown in pink above) is a decorative way to join fabrics together. It’s commonly used for sewing appliqué and finishing the edges of blankets or felted toys. Since this stitch is meant to be visible, feel free to choose any thread color that complements your project for a stylish, eye-catching finish.

ANCHOR THE THREAD

Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. To hide the knot, start by inserting the needle through a middle layer of fabric, bringing it up to the top layer. This will ensure that the knot remains hidden inside the fabric.

MAKE THE FIRST THREAD LOOP

Pull the thread taut and then circle back around to create the first loop by sending the needle under the bottom layer of fabric and bringing it out on top in the exact same spot where you started. Make sure not to pull the loop tight yet, as you want to keep it open.

SEND THE NEEDLE THROUGH THE LOOP YOU’VE CREATED

Bring the needle through the loop you’ve created, then pull the thread taut to secure the stitch. This will form the first decorative stitch, anchoring the fabric together with a neat loop.

PUSH THE NEEDLE BACK THROUGH FROM BOTTOM TO TOP

Move down the seam about 1/4 of an inch and send the needle through the bottom layer of fabric, bringing it up to the top. This will set the next stitch in line, maintaining an even spacing along the seam.

LEAVE A SMALL LOOP BEHIND

Pull the thread taut, but leave a small loop at the top of the fabric. This loop will be used to create the next stitch in the blanket stitch pattern.

PUSH THE NEEDLE THROUGH THE THREAD LOOP

Bring the needle through the loop and pull the thread taut to secure the stitch. This will tighten the loop and create the distinctive look of the blanket stitch.

REPEAT THESE STITCHES

Repeat the process of creating the loop, bringing the needle through, and pulling taut until your project is complete. Continue spacing the stitches evenly along the seam or edge for a consistent and decorative finish.

How to Sew a Whipstitch

This simple technique, made up of short, diagonal stitches, is perfect for hemming window treatments. When used on a hem, whipstitches (shown in yellow above) are typically invisible, quick to execute, and easy to do, making them an ideal choice for fast and neat hemming.

ANCHOR YOUR THREAD

Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. Start by inserting the needle on the inside of the hem, so the knot remains hidden. Then, bring the needle up through to the top layer of fabric.

LOOP THE THREAD AROUND THE FABRIC EDGES

Move your needle forward about half an inch (adjust the length based on your project), loop it around the edge, and then bring the needle up through the bottom side of the fabric. This will create a neat, diagonal stitch along the hem.

REPEAT STITCHES

Repeat the process of moving the needle forward, looping it around the edge, and bringing it up through the bottom side of the fabric until you’ve completed all the stitches along your hem. Keep the stitches evenly spaced for a consistent and neat finish.

How to Sew a Backstitch

This stitch (shown in pink in the photo above) is a small but very strong stitch, making it perfect for sewing seams that require durability. It’s also great for basic embroidery, especially when working on typography or other illustrations for home decor. Its strength and precision make it a versatile choice for both construction and decorative stitching.

ANCHOR THE THREAD

Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread. Start by sending the needle up through the top layer of fabric from the backside to hide the end knot inside the fabric.

START WITH A BASIC STITCH

Send the needle back down into the fabric, following a straight line, about half an inch away from the first stitch. At this point, you’re creating a running stitch, with evenly spaced stitches along the fabric.

PULL THE THREAD TAUT

Pull the thread taut from the underside of the fabric to tighten the stitch and keep the fabric securely in place. This will create a neat, strong seam as you continue stitching.

PUSH NEEDLE FROM BOTTOM TO TOP

Bring the needle back up through to the top of the fabric, making sure it is equidistant from the first stitch. This will create even spacing between each stitch as you continue along the seam.

BRING YOUR NEEDLE BACKWARDS

Instead of moving forward another half inch as you would in a running stitch, bring your needle back to the left and align it with the end of the previous stitch. This creates a small stitch that connects with the previous one, adding strength and neatness to your seam.

PUSH NEEDLE BẠC INTO FABRIC

Push the needle back down towards the underside of the fabric, and pull the thread taut to secure the stitch. This will help create a strong, clean seam as you continue working.

REPEAT

Repeat the process of bringing the needle up, aligning it with the previous stitch, and pushing it back down until you’ve completed your desired number of stitches. Keep the stitches evenly spaced for a neat and consistent finish.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, mastering a few essential hand stitches can open up a wide variety of DIY projects, from simple mending to creating beautiful home decor items. Whether you’re hemming curtains, adding decorative accents to pillows, or strengthening seams, these stitches provide both function and style. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to tackle many sewing projects by hand, achieving professional-looking results without needing a sewing machine. Keep experimenting with these techniques to enhance your sewing skills and bring your creative ideas to life.

BROWS ON FLEEK: BEFORE AND AFTER EYEBROW LAMINATION

Eyebrow lamination is a revolutionary technique that has taken the beauty industry by storm. It involves a semi-permanent treatment that reshapes and tames unruly brows, providing them with a smooth, polished appearance. If you’re tired of spending hours each morning with eyebrow pencils, eyebrow lamination might be the solution for you. Your eyebrows can appear thicker, fuller, and perfectly groomed, with a natural-looking curve that lasts for weeks. In this fascinating exploration, we delve into the transformative power of before-and-after eyebrow lamination.

WHAT IS BROW LAMINATION?

Imagine it as a perm for your eyebrows! Brow lamination is a process that uses special solutions to relax and reshape your brow hairs. This allows them to be brushed upward and held in position. The result is a fuller, lifted look, and it can even help control unruly or downward-growing hairs.

Think of brow lamination as a lash lift, but for your brows. Instead of using perming and setting solutions to create a curled effect, the solutions are applied to make your brow hairs stand upward, giving them a bushy and fluffy appearance.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BROW LAMINATION?

The biggest advantage of laminated brows is undoubtedly the way they look. According to Sarah Maxwell, a brow and lash expert from Los Angeles, when done correctly, laminated brows have a more aesthetically pleasing shape. They appear fuller and more lifted. During the lamination process, you can also adjust the shape of your brows slightly, like raising the arch or lowering the tail, to achieve your desired look.

Unlike other brow treatments such as microblading, brow lamination is non-invasive and temporary. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are hesitant to commit to permanent brow services.

Not only do laminated brows look great, but they are also easier to manage. Maxwell explains that the hairs, especially if they were unruly before, become more manageable in their smooth shape. They appear as though they have been expertly brushed up and set in place, with the hairs lying in a vertical direction.

One of the key selling points of brow lamination is its longevity. The results can last up to eight weeks, which means you won’t have to spend time every morning brushing and setting your brows with gel. This allows for a lower maintenance daily routine.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A BROW LAMINATION?

Before we delve into what you can expect during your appointment, it’s crucial to be prepared. To avoid any unwanted skin reactions, it’s recommended to refrain from using retinol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or other exfoliating skincare products for at least 48 hours before your appointment. These substances can potentially react with the chemical lamination solution. Additionally, it’s best to avoid tweezing, threading, or waxing your brows prior to the appointment as advised by brow technicians.

If you have ultra-sensitive skin or have experienced reactions to hair dye in the past, it’s a good idea to request a patch test before your appointment. While not always necessary for lamination, it can help identify any potential allergies before the solution is applied to your eyebrows.

Inform your brow technician if you have any skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema, if you have had sensitivities to specific chemicals in the past, if you have any eye conditions, or if you currently have sunburn. Based on these factors, your technician will assess whether it is safe for you to proceed with the treatment. This consideration is essential for your well-being and safety.

WHAT IS THE BROW LAMINATION PROCESS LIKE? 

CONSULTATION AND BROW MAPPING

You’ll discuss your desired brow shape and goals with the technician. They’ll assess your brows and recommend a suitable shape based on your facial features. Brow mapping involves lightly drawing the desired shape on your skin for precise placement.

CLEANSING AND BRUSHING

The technician thoroughly cleanses your brows to remove makeup and oils. They may gently brush your brows to reveal their natural direction and texture.

PERMING SOLUTION

A lifting cream, similar to a perm solution, is applied to your brows. This breaks down the hair’s bonds, allowing them to be reshaped. The technician covers your brows with plastic wrap to trap the heat and aid penetration.

NEUTRALIZATION

After a specific time, the perming solution is removed and neutralized with another solution. This sets the new shape of the brows in place.

BRUSHING AND STYLING

The technician brushes your brows again, directing them upwards and into the desired shape. They may trim any stray hairs to refine the shape.

SETTING SOLUTION

A setting solution is applied to lock the hairs in their new position. This ensures the shape holds for several weeks.

TINTING (OPTIONAL)

Some technicians offer brow tinting as an additional step to enhance the color and definition of your brows. This is optional and depends on your preference.

AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS

The technician will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and maintain the shape. This may involve avoiding water and makeup for a specific period and brushing your brows daily.

HOW LONG DOES BROW LAMINATION LAST?

The duration of your laminated brows depends on the natural hair cycle of your eyebrows. Similar to eyelashes, brow hairs go through a renewal process where old hairs shed and new ones grow in.

Typically, the growth cycle for most individuals is around 30 days. As a result, the effects of brow lamination can last anywhere from three to eight weeks.

For example, if you had your brows laminated in early November, you may find that the shape remains intact without much maintenance throughout December. However, by mid to late January, you might notice that a touch of clear brow gel is needed to keep them in place.

Interestingly, some individuals discover that they actually prefer the appearance of their brows a month or two after the initial lamination. This is a personal preference and may vary from person to person.

It’s important to keep in mind that individual experiences with brow lamination can differ based on factors such as hair growth rate and personal styling preferences. Regular touch-ups or maintenance appointments may be necessary to sustain the desired shape and look of your laminated brows.

EYEBROW LAMINATION BEFORE AND AFTER

BEFORE AND AFTER EYEBROW LAMINATION TREATMENT

Sparse eyebrow brow lamination delivers truly remarkable before and after results. Prior to the treatment, your brows may be unruly and lacking shape and definition. However, once you undergo eyebrow lamination, you’ll experience a visible transformation. Your brows will become fuller, thicker, and impeccably groomed. Through the lamination process, the brow hairs are relaxed and reshaped, allowing them to be brushed and set in place. This results in a sleek and polished look, complete with a natural-looking arch that can last for weeks. The before and after images of sparse eyebrow brow lamination demonstrate the incredible difference it can make, elevating your overall appearance and instilling a newfound confidence.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS TO GETTING A BROW LAMINATION?

While brow lamination is generally considered safe, like any beauty treatment, there are potential risks to be aware of. It’s important to understand that everyone’s skin and hair react differently, so what works for one person may not work for another. Some potential risks of brow lamination include skin irritation or allergic reactions to the lamination solution. This is why it’s recommended to avoid certain skincare products and undergo a patch test if you have sensitive skin or a history of allergic reactions. 

Additionally, if the lamination process is not performed correctly or by an inexperienced technician, there is a risk of over-processing or damaging the brow hairs. It’s crucial to choose a reputable professional who has expertise in brow lamination to minimize these risks. By discussing any concerns or allergies with your technician beforehand and ensuring a skilled practitioner performs the treatment, you can mitigate the potential risks associated with brow lamination.

FAQ

1. Is lamination good for your eyebrows?

Not necessarily. Brow lamination offers numerous benefits however there are potential risks associated with the treatment.

2. Who should not get brow lamination?

If you have skin sensitivities, allergies to cosmetic products, or any open wounds or infections near your brows, it is recommended to delay the brow lamination treatment.

3. Is eyebrow lamination painful?

No. The treatment isn’t painful.

CONCLUSION

Eyebrow lamination can work wonders in transforming your brows from ordinary to extraordinary. The before and after results are truly remarkable. Before the treatment, you may have unruly or sparse brows, lacking shape and definition. However, after undergoing eyebrow lamination, you’ll witness a visible transformation. Your brows will appear fuller, thicker, and perfectly groomed. The lamination process relaxes and reshapes the brow hairs, allowing them to be brushed and set in place, resulting in a sleek, polished look with a natural-looking arch. Whether you want to tame unruly brows or achieve a more defined shape, eyebrow lamination is a game-changer that enhances your overall appearance and boosts your confidence.