hemstitch

American  

[hem-stich] / ˈhɛmˌstɪtʃ /

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.

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noun

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

hemstitch British  

/ ˈhɛmˌstɪtʃ /

noun

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

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verb

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

Other Word Forms

• hemstitcher noun

Etymology

Origin of hemstitch

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 • Jan. 18, 2023

"Well, it's certainly a beautiful place, so it is likely she will find a purchaser," said Anne, absently, wondering whether she should hemstitch or feather-stitch little Jem's "short" dresses.

From Anne's House of Dreams by Montgomery, L. M. (Lucy Maud)

Mrs. Sherman picked up a bit of needlework from the table where she had left it, and, sitting down by the window, began to hemstitch.

From The Little Colonel's Christmas Vacation by Barry, Etheldred B. (Etheldred Breeze)

"Ethel and I hemstitch like birds," said Lillian Desmond.

From Patty at Home by Wells, Carolyn

And Pearl did not hesitate to call on Miss Hetty to show her how to hemstitch a handkerchief for Robert Grey.

From Pearl and Periwinkle by Graetz, Anna