According to a quick Google check, my current sewing machine will stitch over 750 stitches per minute.
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Some things can only be done by handstitching-- and some designs are worth every stitch. Shown above is a close-up of the Hexagon Bag from Japanese Quilting by Yoko Saito. All photography by Yasuo Naguno.
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I've not clocked my handsewing capabilities, but I can assure you that it isn't even close to that. In fact, if I could handsew 40 stitches a minute, I'd be surprised.
The fact that I am enjoying handsewing more than ever these days obviously has nothing to do with the speed in which I can finish a project.
So what is it about taking needle and thread to cloth without the benefit of an accelerator that has become so appealing?
1. Handsewing is quiet. If my day has been particularly hectic, quietly stitching is a pleasant antidote. Sewing and curling up in a comfy chair are not mutually exclusive.
2. Once I learned three basic handsewing stitches, I could conquer the world. I recommend the backstitch, applique stitch, and a blind hemstitch. (Stitching guides for these and other hand stitches are on the SewDaily site.)
3. Portability! Pop that project in a tote and I can get together to stitch with a few friends or make some progress if I'm the passenger in a car or commuting on the train.
4. Even the tiniest pieces will bend to my will when I stitch them by hand.
5. Some phenomenal things can only be done with handsewing.
If you need a little more convincing about that last point, take a look at this new book available from the Sew Daily Shop. Featuring the most glorious fabrics, Japanese Quilting: Piece by Piece by Yoko Saito also finds that sweet spot of combining handstitching for the small, intricate piecing, and machine stitching when you need to create sturdy seams.
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Japanese Quilting: Piece by Piece by Yoko Saito |
The photography is as inspiring as the projects. |
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Although I've never attempted anything this intricate with my handsewing, I'm inspired to pull out my taupe fabrics, a needle, and thread. And I'm going to slow down and enjoy the process.
Sew Daily readers--are you doing more handsewing these days? And what types of handsewing projects capture your attention? We'd love to know what you're up to!
Happy stitching!
