Decorative Sewing Machine Stitches: Ideas, Projects and Inspiration

Most modern machines come equipped with dozens, if not hundreds, of decorative stitches. Take a moment to check your sewing machine – how many decorative stitches does it have? More importantly, how often do you use them? But here’s the thing – a lot of us aren’t using them to their full potential. In this article, I want to share some ideas on how we can use these often-overlooked features. We’ll look at ways to embellish clothes, enhance home decor items, and add flair to quilts.

How to Use Decorative Stitches

Before you start using decorative stitches, take a moment to review the basics of working with them. Here are some key considerations.

Thread Selection

Your choice of thread directly impacts how your decorative stitches look and perform.

High-quality threads are essential for decorative stitching.

• They’re less likely to break or fray during stitching.
• They produce cleaner, more consistent stitches.
• They tend to generate less lint, which is good for maintaining your machine’s performance.

Different thread materials offer various effects and properties.

• Polyester threads are strong and colorfast, they are suitable for most decorative stitching projects.
• Cotton threads provide a matte finish and are great for quilting projects.
• Rayon threads offer a beautiful sheen
• Metallic threads add sparkle but may require special handling and machine adjustments.

Sometimes I use all-purpose polyester sewing thread. It works well, and I already have plenty on hand. However, I’ve found myself gravitating towards polyester embroidery thread more and more.

It’s thin yet somewhat strong, which means it can handle the intricate patterns of decorative stitches without breaking or fraying. I love the beautiful sheen it adds to my work. It catches the light in a way that really makes the stitches pop.

Another big advantage is the wide range of colors available in polyester embroidery thread. I’ve built up quite a collection over time, which gives me the freedom to contrast with my fabric exactly as I envision. I can usually find just the right shade.

That said, I still use all-purpose thread for decorative stitches sometimes, especially if I’m going for a more matte look. 

Thread color is very important. I’ve learned that contrast is key. After all, what’s the point of using these beautiful, intricate stitches if they’re barely visible? That’s why I almost always use thread colors that contrast with my fabric.

I look for colors that will pop against the background. For instance, on a navy fabric, I might use a bright yellow or white thread. On lighter fabrics, deep jewel tones create beautiful effects.

Sometimes, I use multiple contrasting colors in a single project. This can create eye-catching patterns and add an extra layer of visual interest to my work. 

Of course, there are rare occasions when I want a more subtle effect, and in those cases, I might choose a thread color closer to the fabric. But generally, I find that bolder is better when it comes to decorative stitching. After all, these stitches are meant to be admired!

Machine Settings

Many decorative stitches have preset width and length settings, but often we can experiment. 

• Adjusting stitch width can make your designs narrower or wider
• Changing the stitch length can compress or elongate the pattern
• You may need to loosen your top tension slightly when using decorative stitches especially if you are uisng embroidery threads or the bobbin thread doesn’t match the needle thread. 

Remember to always test your chosen stitch, thread, and settings on a scrap piece of fabric before starting your project. This allows you to see how the thread performs and looks with your specific fabric and chosen stitch.

The Hidden Potential of Decorative Stitches

It’s true – modern sewing machines boast hundreds of decorative stitches, yet when you browse stores, you rarely, if ever, see them used. Instead, you’ll find embroidery, prints, and other embellishments, but decorative machine stitches seem conspicuously absent. This disconnect is puzzling and worth examining.

The absence of decorative stitches in mass-produced clothing doesn’t mean they’re outdated or unfashionable. On the contrary, I believe it highlights an opportunity for home sewists to create truly unique, personalized items.

Using decorative stitches isn’t a hallmark of “homemade” clothing – far from it. In fact, thoughtful application of these stitches can elevate a garment to couture status. High-end designers often incorporate unique textures and embellishments, and decorative stitches fall into this category. They add a level of detail and craftsmanship that’s often missing from off-the-rack items.

So why aren’t they more common in store-bought clothes? It likely comes down to time and cost. Mass production favors speed and uniformity, while decorative stitching requires more time, thread, and potentially specialized skills. But for home sewists, these constraints don’t apply. We have the freedom to take our time, experiment, and create garments that are truly one-of-a-kind.

By incorporating decorative stitches into our projects, we’re not just making clothes – we’re creating wearable art. We’re adding a personal touch that simply can’t be replicated in mass production. 

Choosing the Right Decorative Stitch

With modern sewing machines offering hundreds of decorative stitches, selecting the right one is really fun but can feel overwhelming. So, how do we approach this choice?

1. Consider the project: The type of item I’m making often guides my stitch selection. For example, floral stitches work well on garden-themed quilts, while geometric patterns suit modern home decor items.
   
2. Think about the fabric: Some stitches show up better on certain fabrics. Delicate, intricate stitches might get lost on textured fabrics, while bold, simple patterns stand out nicely.
   
3. Test on scraps: I always stitch out a few options on scrap fabric before committing. This helps me see how the stitch looks in reality, not just on the machine’s display.
   
4. Match the mood: The stitch should complement the overall feel of the project. Playful, curvy stitches for children’s items, more formal patterns for business attire, etc.
   
5. Consider scale: A small, delicate stitch might look lost on a large quilt, while a big, bold pattern could overwhelm a delicate blouse.
   
6. Combine stitches: Sometimes, I use multiple decorative stitches together to create unique borders or patterns.

In the end, there’s no “right” or “wrong” choice – it’s all about what looks good to you and enhances your project. So, experiment and let your creativity guide you!

Decorative Stitches Ideas

With a simple selection on your sewing machine, you can create rows of intricate designs. Swirls, leaves, hearts, geometric shapes, and even tiny flowers appear as if by magic. There’s no need for complex embroidery hoops or digitized designs. Your sewing machine does all the work, creating consistent, professional-looking embellishments with just the press of a button.

You can add a border of delicate vines to a tablecloth, create a pattern of stars on a child’s dress, or embellish a plain tote bag with a row of interlocking circles. The variety of available stitches means you can find the perfect design for any project, whether you’re aiming for elegant, playful, or somewhere in between.

Adding Decorative Stitches to Clothes

One of my favorite applications for decorative stitches is on hems. While hems are often seen as a purely functional element, they can be an opportunity to showcase your creativity and craftsmanship.

For example, I made this skirt with a pleated hem and decided to add a line of pink decorative stitches on the brown fabric. This not only highlighted the pleats but also gave the skirt a playful, custom look.

In the image below, you can see how I’ve incorporated decorative stitches into my linen dress design. These stitches aren’t on the hem itself, but positioned just above it. I chose a decorative stitch pattern that resembles a thin ribbon, matching the color of the squares in the checkered ribbon below. I think this ties the design elements together effectively. 

One of the reasons I love using decorative stitches is that they can mimic the look of ribbons or trims without adding bulk or requiring additional materials. The stitches integrate seamlessly with the fabric, becoming part of the garment rather than an add-on. This dress demonstrates how a simple row of stitches can enhance the overall aesthetic and contribute to a thoughtful design.

Another example of using decorative stitches on hems is visible in the image of my store-bought capri pants. I added a line of decorative stitches around the hem.

In the image below, you can see a pair of shorts I’ve updated using decorative stitches. Originally, these shorts were quite plain, and I wanted to add some embellishments. Also, they had a small 1-inch cuff (or turn-up) at the hem of each leg that kept unfolding when I wore them. So, I decided to address both issues and add a decorative stitch along the hem.

In this image, you can see how I’ve used decorative stitches to sew a double folded hem on the lining of my skirt. Even though the lining is typically not visible, knowing it’s beautifully finished adds a sense of quality to the entire garment. Many decorative stitches can provide a strong finish that holds up well to wear and tear, which is important for a lining that will see frequent movement. 

Also, linings are a great place to experiment with decorative stitches. If you’re not quite ready to use them on the outer fabric, starting with linings allows you to gain some confidence and skill. It’s these little touches that can make a handmade item feel truly special and luxurious. Just because something isn’t immediately visible doesn’t mean it’s not worth making beautiful. After all, good sewing is as much about how a garment makes you feel as how it looks to others.

Decorative stitches aren’t just for full-sized garments. I’ve found they work wonderfully on doll clothes too. The small scale of doll clothes allows these stitches to become a major design element. 

Sleeves offer another great canvas for decorative stitches. I made a silk robe to wear at home and decided to embellish the sleeves with some stitching to make it even more special. You can see how the metallic thread in these decorative stitches catches the light on the silk, it’s a beautiful detail. This technique works well on both long and short sleeves, you can add interest to cuffs or run decorative stitches along the length of the sleeve.

By the way, I have a sewing tutorial on my site about making this robe – How to make a robe without a pattern from silk fabric / a video sewing tutorial

I had a considerable amount of white silk fabric leftover after making my silk robe. So I didn’t want to waste this luxurious material, I decided to put it to good use. I had enough to make two silk pillowcases and, to my delight, there was still fabric remaining for a sleep mask.

I created the sleep mask using the same white silk, which feels wonderfully smooth against the skin. To tie it in with the pillowcases and the robe, I used the same green metallic thread for decorative stitches on the mask. 

For those interested in creating their own silk sleep mask with decorative stitches, I’ve put together a detailed tutorial. You can find step-by-step instructions on how to sew this mask, including tips on working with silk fabric and applying decorative stitches effectively – DIY sleep mask.

I hope this project demonstrates how scraps from one sewing project can inspire another, allowing you to create a coordinated set of items. It also shows how decorative stitches can turn even small, practical items like a sleep mask into something special and personalized.

Pockets offer another great opportunity for decorative stitches. On my denim dress, I embellished the pocket with decorative stitches that mimic the look of ric-rac trim. Using red thread on the blue denim creates a good contrast that draws attention to this design detail. This approach allows you to add the charm of trim without the bulk, and it’s securely attached as part of the fabric itself.

In this image, you can see a pocket on my cape I’ve embellished using decorative stitches. I chose to use them around the edges of the pocket. It’s a simple way to make a garment uniquely yours.

Decorative stitches aren’t just for embellishment; they can serve functional purposes too. Another practical application is using them to attach pockets. In this photo, you can see an overall I made about seven years ago. I used decorative stitches to secure the pockets so they stay firmly in place even with frequent use.

However, this example also illustrates an important lesson about choosing decorative stitches. Looking at the overall now, I realize the stitches I selected are a bit childish for my current tastes. While they might be perfect for children’s clothing, they don’t quite fit the style I prefer as an older adult.

This experience highlights some key considerations when selecting decorative stitches.

1. Consider whether the stitch design suits the intended wearer’s age and style preferences.
   
2. Think about how your taste might evolve over time, especially for garments you plan to wear for many years.
   
3.  Choose stitches that can transition well as you age or as fashion trends change.
   
4. Consider the overall style of the garment and choose stitches that complement rather than clash with it.

This project serves as a reminder that our design choices can sometimes miss the mark. It’s okay to make mistakes – they’re part of the learning process in sewing. The key is to reflect on these choices and use them for future projects.

Ok, the next project – I sewed a hat and decided to add some flair to it using decorative stitches on the brim. It’s a perfect place to experiment with different stitch patterns, as the flat surface of the brim provides an ideal canvas for intricate designs.

Adding Decorative Stitches to Quilts

Quilts offer a perfect canvas for experimenting with decorative stitches. There are countless ways to incorporate these stitches into quilting projects, each adding its own unique flair to the finished piece.

For example, the base of this quilt block consists of fabric strips in different colors. Between each strip, I’ve added lines of decorative stitches.  It adds visual interest, creating a textured border between each color.  But these stitches aren’t just for beauty – they’re actually quilting stitches for the block, applied using a technique called straight line quilting. The stitches secure all layers of the quilt block (top, batting, and backing) together.

The pink thread color I selected complements the colors of the fabric strips, sometimes contrasting and sometimes blending a bit. 

You could use it with any combination of fabric colors and decorative stitches to create countless unique variations all while completing your quilting at the same time. It’s a great way to add a personal touch to your quilt blocks and make use of those built-in stitches on your sewing machine.

Another example of incorporating decorative stitches into quilts is my Christmas table runner. You can find the full sewing tutorial for this project on my site – How To Make A Quilted Christmas Table Runner.

This table runner features a relatively wide border, which presented a unique quilting challenge. While I was able to quilt all the central blocks using my embroidery machine, the border proved more difficult to manage in the embroidery hoop.

Rather than struggle with hooping the border or leave it unquilted, I came up with a creative solution using decorative stitches. I decided to add a single line of scallop stitches right down the center of the border. This approach worked beautifully. It added a decorative element that complemented  the overall design. The stitching provided enough quilting to secure all layers of the border together.

This project demonstrates how decorative stitches can be a practical solution to quilting challenges while also enhancing the overall design of your quilt. It’s a technique I’ll definitely be using again in future projects, especially for quilts with borders that might be tricky to quilt conventionally.

When it comes to finishing quilts, the binding is often the last step, but it doesn’t have to be an afterthought. Using a decorative stitch, specifically the blanket stitch, to attach quilt binding offers both practical and aesthetic benefits. This technique proved particularly valuable when I was working on a reversible placemat. 

For this project, I needed a binding method that would look good on both sides, as each side of the placemat would be visible during use. The blanket stitch was the perfect solution. It firmly attached the binding to both sides of the placemat simultaneously and added a decorative element to the binding on both sides. 

Most sewing machines allow you to adjust the width and length of the blanket stitch. This means you can tailor the look to complement your placemat’s style on both sides. Also, the blanket stitch provides a sturdy edge that stands up well to washing and frequent use – an important factor for items like placemats.

Decorative Stitches Ideas for Home Decor Projects

Decorative stitches are also great for home décor projects, especially when you need to create something beautiful quickly. A perfect example is the set of Christmas placemats I made.

I needed to make 13 placemats, and I had limited time to complete the project (I was visiting my daughter). I decided to make them reversible, with red fabric on one side and green on the other. I liked the fabric’s spark-like pattern which is not only festive but also practical for placemats. Its busy design helps mask small stains or spills.

To decorate them swiftly yet beautifully, I decided to use four lines of different decorative stitches running from side to side of each placemat. 

I chose four different stitch designs, including snowflakes and Christmas trees, along with two other complementary patterns. White embroidery thread for all stitches was very visible against both the red and green fabrics. I used the same thread in the needle and bobbin, so the stitches appear identical on both sides, efficiently decorating the reversible placemats simultaneously. 

This method allowed for quick embellishment of multiple items, with the stitches serving as both decoration and a way to secure the layers of the placemat.

I made silk pillowcases for a special Christmas project (you can find the details here – DIY pillowcase from natural silk fabric for better and healthier sleep), and I decided to enhance them with decorative stitches around the perimeter. For these stitches, I chose green metallic thread, which created a nice contrast against the silk fabric.

I liked the result. The green metallic thread complemented the natural sheen of the silk. 

However, I will admit that using metallic thread for pillowcases might not have been the most practical choice. Metallic thread can be less durable than regular thread, and pillowcases undergo frequent use and washing. I was concerned that the stitches might not withstand regular use over time.

Surprisingly, these pillowcases have held up better than I initially expected. After a few years of regular use, they still look good. The decorative stitches have maintained their integrity, and the metallic thread continues to add sparkle to the pillowcases.

This project taught me about balancing aesthetics with practicality in sewing. It’s important to consider the durability and care requirements of our creations.

It’s experiences like these that remind me why I enjoy sewing – the ability to create something both beautiful and personal, something that can elevate everyday items. Even a simple pillowcase can become special with the right details.

Using A Twin Needle With Decorative Stitches

When decorative stitches are paired with a twin needle, the results can be truly beautiful. The twin needle creates two parallel rows of stitches which add depth and dimension to decorative work. This technique is especially effective when you experiment with different thread colors. The interplay of colors creates a unique pattern that’s hard to achieve with a single needle. The end result often resembles a delicate ribbon sewn onto the fabric, but it’s becoming an integral part of the material itself.

The key to success with this technique lies in choosing thread colors that not only complement each other but also enhance the fabric you’re working with. 

I put this technique to use on a Halloween pillow project. If you look closely at the stitches between the petals, you’ll notice they have a ribbon-like appearance. However, these aren’t actual ribbons – they’re decorative stitches made using a twin needle. 

This method of using decorative stitches with a twin needle can be applied to various sewing projects. It’s particularly effective for adding borders, creating texture, or highlighting specific areas of a design. The technique requires a bit of practice to master, but the unique effects it produces are well worth the effort.

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