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

This mouse before us carried a small towel, hemstitched, over one arm.

From Literature

“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

The hemstitched place mats, 17 by 13 inches, are solid color and reversible so there’s a choice of blue-green or orange-yellow, $28 each.

From New York Times

Mrs. Balfame put on her best black blouse in his honour; it was cut low about the throat and softened with a rolling collar of hemstitched white lawn.

From Project Gutenberg

"Yet we have fine women and devoted ones here, Father," objected Constance, putting down the fine linen that she was hemstitching for her father's wearing.

From Project Gutenberg