I want to share with you all, how to achieve a perfect topstitch without purchasing special thread.
The triple straight stitch is used for reinforced seams, and it is also perfect for topstitching.
Ordinarily topstitching is accomplished by using a straight stitch and a heavy weight topstitch thread.
But the same, if not better, results can be achieved by using regular weight (40w)
multi-purpose thread in conjunction with the triple straight stitch,
which is standard on many of today’s sewing machines.
The stitch icon looks like stitch number 31 on this sewing machine:
Your sewing machine will take one stitch forward,
one stitch back over that same stitch,
and again one stitch forward over the previous two stitches.
Three stitches in all, but the end result is one straight stitch.
Thus the name – triple straight stitch.
This is the same number of layers of fabric and the same thread,
but topstitched with a regular straight stitch.
See the difference?
I use my number 10C presser foot when I topstitch.
It is called an edgestitch foot.
As you can see from the bottom of the presser foot,
it has a metal guide running through the middle of the foot.
Simply position that guide along the edge of your fabric,
set the needle either to the left or the right of the guide, and stitch.
The result is a perfectly placed, even line of stitching.
The next time you want to add topstitching to your project, give the triple straight stitch a try.
Use your regular presser foot if you don’t happen to have the edgestitch foot.
It works just as well, but you will have to be more attentive to keeping your stitch line
an exact distance from the edge of your fabric throughout the length of topstitching.
Happy stitching, my friends!
A Notion to Sew 