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to topstitch

to topstitch

6.5
To sew a visible line of stitches on the outside of clothing to add decoration or strength
  • verb
  • /ˈtɑpˌstɪtʃ/
translation icon : hacer una puntada decorativa
  • To add a decorative touch to the dress, remember to topstitch along the hem with contrasting thread.

Examples

  • For extra durability, you should topstitch the edges of the canvas bag before using it.

  • In the heirloom method, they are cut, turned under on the right side to make the points, and then secured by topstitching on the tuck stitching line, not the greatest technique for a beautiful crepe but great for a sharp linen.

    Blog text (2)
  • Topstitch to close the opening.

    Blog text (21)
  • She decided to topstitch the seams of her new jacket to give it a more finished appearance.

Synonyms

to stitch
vsto topstitch
99 2.5

To join or repair cloth with a needle and thread

is a visible outside line for decoration or added strength not general joining
to stitch up
vsto topstitch
6 3.9

To sew a hole or loose edge to make clothing whole again

is a visible outside line for decoration or added strength rather than simple repair
to double stitch
vsto topstitch
  • Specialized
1 4.1

To sew two rows of stitches for extra strength or decoration

is a single visible outside row for decoration or added strength
to hem
vsto topstitch
1 4.1

To fold the edge of cloth and sew it to stop it coming apart

is a visible outside line for decoration or strength not a folded edge finish
to backstitch
vsto topstitch
  • Specialized
7.3

To sew by putting the needle back into the cloth behind the last hole to make a strong continuous line

is a visible outside line for decoration or strength not a sewing technique
to hemstitch
vsto topstitch
  • Specialized
9.9

To sew the edge of fabric with a decorative open border

is a visible outside line for decoration or strength not openwork border
to whipstitch the hem
vsto topstitch
  • Specialized
8.7

To sew the folded edge of cloth by hand with small stitches over it

is a visible outside line for decoration or strength not an edge finish method

How Visible

to embroider
32 4.2
to topstitch
6.5
to baste
  • Specialized
1 7.5
to sew
242 1.0

Surface Forms

topstitch infinitive
topstitched past participle
topstitching present participle
topstitches third person singular

Morphology

topstitch = top + stitch (transparent) = top + stitch

The word is a straightforward combination of 'top' and 'stitch', referring to stitching on the outer or top surface of fabric.

Etymology

To topstitch is to sew a visible line of stitches on the outside of clothing; the word mixes top ('on the outside') and stitch ('a loop of thread'), so it literally means 'sew on the top' and explains why tailors topstitch edges to make them neat and strong.