Catch stitch, also called herringbone stitch, forms a row of crossing Xs. Because the thread zigzags, it can stretch with the fabric, which makes it the hand stitch for hemming knits and for heavy fabrics.
| Strength | Medium |
|---|---|
| Visible on the right side | Almost invisible from the right side |
| Stitch length | ¼–½ in (6–12 mm) between stitches |
| Level | Easy |
| Good for | Hems on knit and stretchy fabric, heavy fabrics, and holding facings and interfacing in place. |
How to sew catch stitch
- Work from left to right (right-handers), with the needle pointing left.
- Take a small stitch in the hem, just below its edge.
- Move diagonally up and to the right, and take a small stitch in the main fabric just above the hem edge.
- Move diagonally down and to the right, and take a small stitch in the hem.
- Repeat, so the thread forms a row of Xs.
Tips
- Keep the stitches in the main fabric tiny so they do not show on the right side.
- Do not pull tight; the stitch needs a little slack to stretch.