Chain Stitching 101: The Ultimate Time-Saving Sewing Trick ⛓️
Ever feel like sewing takes longer than it should, especially when tackling repetitive pieces? Meet your new best friend: chain stitching! This handy technique is perfect for speeding up sewing projects by allowing you to stitch multiple pieces in one continuous thread, without stopping between each piece. It’s a game-changer for projects like quilt blocks, plushies, and any pattern with lots of small pieces.
Let’s dive into how to chain stitch like a pro!
What is Chain Stitching?
Chain stitching (or “chain piecing”) is a method where you line up several fabric pieces and sew them one after the other, without cutting the thread in between. The result? A “chain” of stitched pieces you can quickly separate once you’re done. It’s efficient, saves thread, and keeps you in a productive flow—perfect for batch sewing.
Why Use Chain Stitching? 🕒
Saves Time – No need to stop, cut, or start again with each piece. Simply keep sewing!
Reduces Thread Waste – With fewer cuts between pieces, you’re left with less scrap thread.
Maintains Momentum – Chain stitching minimizes the “stop-and-start” feel of sewing, making projects feel faster and more streamlined.
Keeps Pieces Organized – When working on complex patterns like quilt blocks, chain stitching keeps everything in order, so you’re less likely to mix up pieces.
How to Chain Stitch Step-by-Step
Prep Your Pieces: Organize all the pieces you need to stitch together. Chain stitching works best for projects with multiple, similar pieces that need the same type of seam.
Set Up Your Machine: Thread your machine, set your stitch length, and position your first pair of fabric pieces as you would for normal stitching.
Start Sewing: Begin stitching your first piece, stopping about a quarter-inch from the end.
Insert the Next Piece: Without lifting the presser foot, line up the next fabric piece behind the first and continue sewing. The gap between each piece should be just enough to separate the fabric without needing to cut the thread.
Continue the Chain: Keep adding pieces in the same way, sewing straight from one piece to the next without cutting the thread.
Snip and Separate: Once all pieces are stitched, carefully snip the connecting threads between each pair.
When to Use Chain Stitching 🧵
Chain stitching shines in projects that require lots of small, repeated pieces. Here are a few ideal projects:
Quilt Blocks: Chain piece those squares or triangles without stopping after each one.
Small Plushies & Toys: If you’re making multiple small plushie pieces (like arms, legs, ears), chain stitching can save tons of time.
Bag and Purse Components: Chain stitch pockets, straps, or panels, and get those pieces ready for assembly in no time.
Batch Sewing Projects: Making multiple of the same item, like aprons or pillow covers? Chain stitch away for a quicker finish!
Pro Tips for Perfect Chain Stitching 🌟
Use a Quarter-Inch Presser Foot: If your machine has a ¼-inch presser foot, it helps keep seams consistent, especially in projects like quilting.
Secure Each Piece: Start with a backstitch at the beginning of each piece if you want extra seam security (but it’s optional for chain stitching).
Stay Focused on Alignment: As you feed each piece into the machine, make sure your fabric edges stay aligned to keep your seams neat.
Break the Chain to Finish
Once your chain is complete, snip the connecting threads, and your pieces are ready for the next step! Chain stitching is the perfect way to maximize your efficiency, especially if you’re diving into larger or batch projects.
So grab your fabric pieces, set up your machine, and start chaining your way to faster, more efficient sewing!
Take a Class!
Check out this How to Chain Piece Fabric on Creativebug to learn more. Learn how to construct a nine-patch quilt block using one of Ashley Nickel’s favorite short cuts: chain piecing. Prepare and cut your nine fabric squares and learn how to piece them together row-by-row without ever snipping threads. You’ll then learn how to sew your chained pieces together by nestling the seams. With this trick up your sleeve, you’ll end up with a flawless nine-patch quilt block in a flash.
Happy chaining!