Basic Sewing Stitches
more tips
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Running Stitch
The running stitch is used to make simple seams in fabrics. It is easily completed by passing your needle in and out of the fabric at equal distances of approximately 1/4”. The stitches on the topside of your fabric should be the same length of the stitches on the underside of your fabric.
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Backstitch
The backstitch is one of the strongest types of hand-sewn stitches. The back stitch is used for making small, tight seams that will not leak filling (sleeping bags).
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Step 1:
Start out by sewing a couple of stitches over the same spot, and then sew a stitch with a space. Insert the needle from the underside of the fabric layers 1/8” to the left of where your stitching will begin. Pull the thread through to the knot.
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Step 2:
Insert the needle 1/8 inch behind where the thread emerges (where your stitching will begin). Bring the needle up 1/4” beyond this insertion, and pull the thread snugly. Bring the needle up 1/4” beyond.
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Step 3:
Viewed from the top, backstitching appears as a continuous line of even stitches; viewed underneath, the stitches are twice as long as those on top and they overlap at the ends.
Find more great tips like these in our Repair Guide
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To find pinhole leaks in Gore-Tex® fabric dry tops: 1) Turn the suit inside out. 2) Soak the tip of a rag in rubbing alcohol and dab over the suspect area. 3) The hole will show up as a contrasting color. Allow area to dry and seal (on the inside surface) with Aquaseal®.
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Keep knots and kinks from jamming in your throw bag by stuffing it correctly!
Step 1. Untangle and spread out your rope on a clean surface.
Step 2. Turn your back to your rope, drape it over your shoulder and begin to coil it into your throw bag.
Step 3. Ensure you’re stuffing the bag evenly and that kinks are untwisting behind you.