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Having trouble closing a pillow

italiangoddess | Posted in General Sewing Info on

Hi ,

I have been making some pillows lately and can not seem to get them closed properly.

I know its a slip stitch but i just cant get it to work right i still see my stitches……

can someone help…..plzzzzzz this is driving me crazy.

Thanks for any advice..

Replies

  1. Josefly | | #1

    When I hand-stitch pillows closed, I pin the seam together first, so that the seam allowances of the opening are folded inside, making two parallel folded edges pinned together. Then stitch an invisible stitch thus: take the needle inside one folded-in edge for less than 1/4 inch, pull it out of the fold, then STRAIGHT across into the opposing folded-in edge and carry it for less than 1/4 inch, and on and on the length of the opening. The stitches are hidden inside the folded edges, but if you could see them it would look something like this:
    -_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_. I may have to go back over the seam in the same manner in the opposite direction if the pillow is over-stuffed or the fabric is bulky, to make sure the seam is not pulling apart. There is a name for this stitch, but I'm not sure what it is. Using a corded or un-corded welting in the seam also helps to hide the closing stitches. I hope this helps.



    Edited 1/28/2006 11:43 am ET by Josefly

    1. lizabeth | | #2

      I have seen that stitch called ladder stitch and it is just brilliant for invisibly repairing a seam that you cannot get the machine back into as well as for cushions etc.

      1. stitcher | | #3

        I also find it helpful to use a small curved upholstery needle--if the fabric is particularly stiff or tightly woven a thimble or "pusher" is helpful

        1. Susan -homedecsewing | | #4

          I always put a zipper in pillows ,my clients always appreciate it and then they can be washed or dry cleaned.

          1. SewTruTerry | | #5

            Also if your stitches are showing you may need a bit of iron on interfacing in that area, because sometimes thinner or looser woven fabrics will allow the hand stitches to show.  I also agree about the ladder stitch and the use of pins it really helps.

          2. italiangoddess | | #10

            Thank You for your help.....:)

      2. italiangoddess | | #9

        Thank you for your help.....:)

    2. italiangoddess | | #8

      Thank You for your help......:)

  2. Kiley | | #6

    I like to leave an opening that I close with hook and loop tape so the pillow cover can be washed.

    1. italiangoddess | | #7

      Thank you for your help....:)

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