hemstitch

[ hem-stich ]

verb (used with object)

1. to hem along a line from which threads have been drawn out, stitching the cross threads into a series of little groups.
2. to simulate hand hemstitching by piercing the material with a large machine needle and then stitching around the perforations.

noun

1. the stitch used or the needlework done in hemstitching.

hemstitch

/ ˈhɛmˌstɪtʃ /

noun

1. a decorative edging stitch, usually for a hem, in which the cross threads are stitched in groups

verb

1. to decorate (a hem, etc) with hemstitches

Derived Forms

• ˈhemˌstitcher, noun

Other Words From

• hemstitcher noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of hemstitch¹

First recorded in 1830–40; hem ¹ + stitch ( def )

Example Sentences

“Garnet Hill’s quality is consistently high, and I like a hemstitch detail better than an embroidered one,” she says, for keeping sheets flat without ironing.

From Washington Post

An “edited, restrained” approach allows all the components to shine, from the smoked bush leaves tucked into classic white linen hemstitch napkins to the stunning deep red peony centerpiece by Ariana Lambert Smeraldo of Lily Lodge.

From Los Angeles Times

It's not that Lord Hemstitch, for all his pretty looks.

From Project Gutenberg

There are several modifications of the hemstitch.

From Project Gutenberg

"You see, old man Meeker has been trying to teach the Utes how to plow, how to subtract and divide and to carry wood, while the squaws crochet, hemstitch and make sofa pillows."

From Project Gutenberg