Threads Magazine - Threads #198, Aug./Sept. 2018

Online Archive| Join| Login

Insider

How to do a Fell Stitch

By Kenneth D. King Jun 22, 2009

Also called an “appliqué stitch,” a fell (or “felling”) stitch is used to appliqué one layer of fabric (generally a folded or selvage edge) to another. It’s quick, strong, and flexible-the piece sewn on with a fell stitch can move somewhat like a hinge, and that makes it good for installing linings. It is also used to sew lace-either as appliqués or appliqué seams. The fell stitch is seen in millinery work as well as clothing; it is used to attach hat bodies to brims and to attach hatbands to hats. The stitches themselves typically sit 90 degrees to the edge, or they can be angled slightly. 1. Emerge on the folded edge. The stitch should be about 1mm away from the fold. 2. Insert the needle directly into the fabric next to the fold. Run it diagonally so that it emerges beyond the first stitch. 3. Pull the stitch closed. See how the stitch sits 90 degrees to the fold? Sew the stitches between 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 inch apart. Except from Threads, Issue 135, p. 65.

You must be an insider to access this article.

Start your FREE trial today and get instant access to this article plus access to all Threads Insider content.

Start Your Free Trial

Already an Insider? Log in

Get the latest including tips, techniques and special offers straight to your inbox.

Threads Insider

Get instant access to hundreds of videos, tutorials, projects, and more.

Already an Insider? Log in

Subscribe to Threads today

Save up to 37% and get a free gift

Discuss

user-2088651 June 19th

Thank you SO much - just found this - and in the nick of time. Your tutorials are amazing!
handsthatsew December 14th

this was very helpful in sewing a purse lining!
SusanJensen October 8th

Thanks, Kenneth King! I needed this to apply the lining to my Chanel Jacket! Love your work with Threads!
Gladtobehere November 5th

This is a very simply way to explain applique stitch.

Love the way you present the stitch. Have use this
stitch many times.
sewingpuzzle September 22nd

Cool! My grandma and great-grandmother were professional quilt makers for upscale families in Louisville, KY, many years ago. Some of their personal quilts have lovely applique, but I never knew how it was done. Thanks to your illustration, now I do!
Izzy1974 August 27th

Keep the tips and tutorials coming!!!! They're fantastic!!!
purpleque July 13th

Kenneth,

This is the best and simpliest explanation of the stitch. I love your tips. Keep them coming!
MaddyGranma July 6th

Such beautiful work, and very useful tutorial!
Love_it July 1st

Dear Kenneth,

Don't stop give us more. I love the subjects you demo.

How to do a Fell Stitch

You must be an insider to access this article.

Discuss

Share

Related

Discuss

Log in or become a member to post a comment.

More From Threads

Featured

Most Popular

Threads Insider Exclusives

Become an Insider today!

Finish an Edge with a Triple Cordover Stitch | Insider Video

Make Crushed Velvet | Insider Video

Elastic Thread Ruching | Insider Video

Pants Fitting, Example 1

Pants Patterns Compared

Introduction to Pants Fitting

Fundamentals of Hand Sewing

Learn Four Basic Hand Stitches

Sew a Fell Stitch by Hand

Sew a Slipstitch and Blind-Hem Stitch by Hand

Hawaiian-Style Summer Skirt

Hand-Sewn Eyelets for Strength and Beauty

Couture Jacket Hemming | Insider Video

A Guide for Sewing Professional Shirt Cuffs

Sew Beads on Sheer Netting and Tulle | Insider Video

Two Ways to Create Ruched Velvet | Insider Video

Highlights

Sign up for the Threads eletter

Shop the Store

Threads Magazine

Follow

Sign up for the Threads eletter

Membership & Magazine

Taunton Network

Follow