What is a basting stitch?

A basting stitch is a temporary stitch used to hold fabric pieces together before final stitching. It is generally longer and looser than regular stitches, making it easier to remove once the final stitching is complete.

Basting stitches are often used in sewing to hold fabric in place during fitting, easing, or other sewing techniques. They can also be used to create gathering or pleating in fabric, as well as to attach trims or embellishments before sewing them permanently.

Basting stitches can be hand-sewn or done on a sewing machine, depending on the project and personal preference. They are typically sewn with a contrasting thread color to make them easier to remove once the final stitching is done.

Overall, basting stitches are a useful technique in sewing for temporarily holding fabric in place and ensuring accurate and professional-looking results.