What is the slip stitch?
This sewing tutorial will show you how to hand slip stitch an opening closed. This is useful anytime you have two pieces of fabric, or any opening that you’re left with after turning a garment right side out after stitching it together and you’re left with an opening. This stitch is done by hand and leaves an invisible line of stitching that closes up your opening. Probably one of the most fundamental hand stitches, it’s definitely the most handy. This stitch is also really useful if you ever have a hole in your clothing, couch seams, or any fabric. Use this to close it up without any stitches showing!
How to close an opening with the slip stitch
Step 1: Knot Your Thread
Thread your thread through your hand needle and secure a knot at the end. You’ll have your 2 pieces of fabric, with the RIGHT side of your fabric showing. Make sure the ends of your fabric have been turned under so your edges are nice and neat. From the inside of your garment (if possible) push your needle out at the fold of your fabric.
Step 2: Push Needle Through Fabric
Push your needle back in the fold of the other piece of fabric, and slide it down the inner fold and push it back out, about 1/4 of an inch down. Continue this method, going back and forth between the pieces of fabric, until your opening has been sewn shut. I like to go back over each opening 3 or 4 times
Step 3: Tie Your Knot
Once your opening is closed up, use your needle to tie a knot close to the edge of your fabric.
Step 4: Pull Your Needle Out
Now pull your needle all the way through to the backside, and tug at it so that it pulls your knot to the backside of the fabric.
Step 4: Trim Loose Threads
Clip your thread and you’re done! You should have a neatly sewn seam with no threads showing.
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