Using Reverse Stitching

What you will learn

• Working the reverse control
• Matching reverse stitches to forward stitches
• Knowing when to avoid reverse

Materials and tools

• Threaded machine
• Scrap woven cotton, folded double

1. Find the reverse lever or button. It may be on the front, on the right side or on a dial. Check your manual.

   1. Spool pin
   2. Thread guides
   3. Tension dial
   4. Take-up lever
   5. Needle clamp and needle
   6. Presser foot
   7. Feed dogs
   8. Needle plate
   9. Bobbin and bobbin case
   10. Presser-foot lifter
   11. Stitch selector
   12. Stitch length control
   13. Reverse lever or button
   14. Handwheel
   15. Foot pedal

2. Start a seam with the needle down in the fabric about 3/8 in (1 cm) from the edge and sew forward 3 or 4 stitches.
3. Press and hold the reverse control. On most machines it only reverses while held. Sew backwards over the same line to the edge.
4. Release the control and sew forward again over the same stitches, then continue the seam.
5. Stop 3/8 in (1 cm) before the end and reverse 3 or 4 stitches. Release and sew forward to the edge.
6. Look at the stitch line. The reversed stitches should lie in the same holes with no loops, so the line looks like a single row.
7. Use reverse only as long as needed. Too many back-and-forth stitches build up thickness and can pucker thin fabric.

Tips for a neat result

• Reverse stitching goes at the same speed as forward stitching. Do not rush.
• Some machines also have an automatic lock stitch. Check the manual.

Common mistakes and fixes

Check your result

• The locking stitches sit directly on the line.
• A gentle tug on the seam end does not loosen the stitches.