Basting - Pin, Machine, Hand, Slip Basting

Basting

This is a term used to combine two pattern pieces, before it is machined. The pattern pieces which has to be joined are placed together pinned in position. Later small running stithces are made by hand using matching colour thread. This helps the pattern to be attached properly and prevents slippage. It also aids beginners to master smooth machining. (Figure).

Pin Basting

As a first step in sewing strong fabrics, pins are used. This type of basting is known as pin basting. While stitching the machine needle should  not come in touch with the pins which have used for joining the fabric. Hence, we have to leave 1 cm from the seam line for using pins. This type of basting is not suitable for light weight fabrics and also for very strong fabrics like pant materials. In this type of basting we have to use bell pins, which is made for pin basting (Figure).

Machine Basting

Sewing machine is used for machine basting. We should keep the stitch length as 6 per inch with the use of stitch regulator. This will give long temporary stitches. Then we have to increase the number of stitches per inch and do machining near the temporary stitch. After that we have to remove the temporary long stitches (Figure). This type of basting is mainly useful for beginners.

Hand Stitches

Hand stitches are used to join the neck lines, armscye lines and hem lines. Even basting, uneven basting are commonly used to join the curved lines. If it is for longer use, permanent hand stitches must be made. (Figure).

Slip basting

This type of basting is used to join curved lines of a garment. This basting is done between the seam line and edge of fabric. Slip basting is very helpful for beginners. Slip basting can be machined to increase the durability of the stitches.(Figure).

Slip basting is used to join the neck lines, armscye line, shoulder line and V shaped lines. Slip basting should be done by contrast color thread,to enable us to remove after doing permanent seams.