I had some time to actually sew these last couple days! I’m still playing catch-up from being gone over a month. I’m not living on the edge, but I’m sure living on the go. I LOVE to travel, so that really doesn’t phase me. What does keep me on edge is keeping up with all the quilty things. Website, blog, Facebook, orders, teaching, new designs, making samples, and new quilts or projects. So, sitting at my machine, cutting and sewing felt really good! I can’t show you the finished project, well, not just yet… but I will show you stitching bits I did.
First, the fabrics are from Turtle Hand Batik. We are working on combining their fabric with one or more of my patterns. I have to say, AWESOME! The fabrics are hand stamped and very rich in color. FUN!

Some of the constructing I did required a zipper. Easy! I like to EDGE STITCH along the edge to 1- make it pretty and 2- give stability.  I also EDGE STITCHED along a pocket.

EDGE stitch along zipper.

EDGE stitching along pocket.

On this same project I did some TOP STITCHING. Top stitching is typically 1/4″ away from a seam or decorative finish to a turned edge. It also 1- makes it pretty and 2- gives stability. They sure sound the same.  So, why the two different names for stitching that is close to or near an EDGE? You’ll have to ask the sewing history gurus and books that question. They are similar, yet different.  I learned both early on in my sewing career in junior high Home Ec. Then again in college for my clothing classes. And I still use them today for many of my sewing projects.

Some tips for both stitching techniques, EDGE STITCHING #1 – Keep it straight and even, no matter how far from a folded edge you are sewing. Typically an edge stitch is 1/8″-1/4″ from the edge.
#2 – TOP STITCHING is typically 1/4″ from the edge. Again keep it consistent! I like to use a slightly longer stitch length when I TOP STITCH or EDGE STITCH.

No matter which STITCH you are sewing along the “EDGE”. Consistency is KEY! Find a line on your throat plate to follow or place on your presser foot for a fine (good) straight line!
in quilting,
Debbie