stikking

Stikking is the act or process of joining fabric or other materials by interlacing a thread with a needle, forming stitches along a seam, ornament, or edge. In Dutch-language usage, stikking refers to both hand stitching and machine stitching and encompasses functional seaming as well as decorative embroidery. The practice appears in cultures around the world and has evolved from basic repairs to complex textile work and garment construction.

Techniques and types range from simple to elaborate. Hand stitches include running stitch, backstitch, whipstitch, and overcast stitch; decorative forms include satin stitch and cross-stitch. Machine stitching covers a variety of stitches such as straight stitch, zigzag, and specialized stitches produced by sergers or overlock machines. Some projects combine both hand and machine stikking for strength and detail. Finishing techniques, such as backstitching to secure seams and proper knotting or burying thread tails, improve durability and appearance.

Materials and tools commonly used for stikking include thread or yarn, needles suitable for the fabric, scissors, pins, measuring tools, and, for machine work, a sewing machine and appropriate presser feet. Comfort and safety considerations include using the correct needle type and size for the fabric, maintaining appropriate thread tension, and protecting fingertips with a thimble when hand-stitching.

Applications cover clothing construction, repairs and alterations, home textiles, quilting, embroidery, and upholstery. Stikking can be a practical technique for mending fabric or a creative medium for decorative design. See also sewing, embroidery, tailoring, and textile arts.