If you are feeling overwhelmed by all the stitch settings on your sewing machine, know that you're not alone.

I have been sewing pretty much every day for nearly 7 years, and I still only use three stitches for almost everything.

 

The Only 3 Sewing Machine Stitches You Really Need

 

1. The Straight Stitch

The straight stitch is by far the one I use the most. It's the backbone of almost every sewing project.

 

Here's how I use it:

 

Seam construction – I usually go with a stitch length of 2.4.

Topstitching – Depending on the fabric thickness, I increase the stitch length to 3 or 3.5.

Basting – Set your stitch length to the longest setting (mine goes up to 5). This makes it easy to temporarily hold fabric in place and remove the stitches later.

Gathering – I use two rows of long straight stitches for a stronger and neater gather.

Other uses – Perfect for darts, understitching, and so much more.

If my machine could only do one stitch, this would be it. It's simple, strong, and versatile.

 

2. The Zigzag Stitch

The zigzag stitch might look decorative, but it’s incredibly functional.

 

Here's how I use it:

 

Jersey fabrics – Great for stretchy materials that need some give.

Gathering thicker fabrics – I zigzag over a length of cord or yarn and pull it to create gathers.

Finishing raw edges – When I don’t have access to my overlocker, a zigzag stitch helps prevent fraying.

Sewing stretch hems – Perfect for sleeves, shirt bottoms, and pant legs on jersey projects.

Decorative effects – Use contrast thread for a fun and visible stitch design.

Don’t underestimate this one, it’s far more useful than it first appears!

 

3. The Buttonhole Stitch

You might not use this every day, but when you need it, it’s a game changer.

 

Here's how I use it:

 

Closures – For shirts, trousers, and other garments with buttons.

Drawstring channels – Like on the waistbands of pants or hoodie hoods.

Pro tip – Always apply interfacing on the wrong side of the fabric before stitching your buttonhole, and test it out on a scrap piece first!

Most machines either have a one-step or four-step buttonhole. Both work beautifully.

 

Final Thoughts

These three stitches, straight, zigzag, and buttonhole, do 99% of the work in my sewing room. Once you get familiar with them, you will see just how far a simple set of stitches can take you.

Thanks for reading and happy sewing!
Bye for now, B! xx