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buttonhole stitch

American  

noun

Sewing.
  1. a looped stitch used to strengthen the edge of material and keep it from raveling, as around a buttonhole.


buttonhole stitch British  

noun

  1. a reinforcing looped stitch for the edge of material, such as around a buttonhole

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of buttonhole stitch

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Star in buttonhole stitch on background of small crosses.

From Jacobean Embroidery Its Forms and Fillings Including Late Tudor by Fitzwilliam, Ada Wentworth

The entire pattern is carried out in this way, first laying down foundation threads in the necessary places and then covering them up with either overcasting or buttonhole stitch as required.

From Embroidery and Tapestry Weaving by Christie, Grace

The entire figure is then carried out, both solid filling and openwork, with fine stitching, the buttonhole stitch being most generally employed.

From Lace, Its Origin and History by Goldenberg, Samuel L.

Centre loop stitch and maidenhair in buttonhole stitch.

From Jacobean Embroidery Its Forms and Fillings Including Late Tudor by Fitzwilliam, Ada Wentworth

In the blanket stitch, feather stitch, herringbone, chain and buttonhole stitch the new thread must come out through the last stitch.

From Handicraft for Girls A Tentative Course in Needlework, Basketry, Designing, Paper and Cardboard Construction, Textile Fibers and Fabrics and Home Decoration and Care by McGlauflin, Idabelle

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