Primary definition of "baste" as provided by Google... |
My modus operandi has always been something along the lines of get it done in the most efficient way possible while delivering above average results. That approach worked well throughout my career and I find that it serves me well in my non-work creative endeavours too. So when I come upon an idea of doing something that adds time and effort to a task, I tend to hesitate and ponder why it's needed.
If you read my first post, you may recall that I am not new to sewing. I first took up this hobby as a teenager but then abandoned it in my early twenties. (So I suppose I am somewhat of a "born again" sewer.) In the sewing portions of my Home Economics 10, 20 and 30 courses (in grades 10, 11 and 12 during my high school years), we had to make little sampler squares showing that we had mastered the basic stitches and sewing skills. I hated doing those and truth be told, I never did get my credits for Home Ec 30 because I did not go back and finish the required samplers. The point is that I remember doing a "basting square" after having discussions about basting and what it was used for and why it was sometimes absolutely required.
Basting does, however, take extra time and sometimes hand basting — which takes even more time — is the only way to do the job right.
Had to baste this before I could sew it... |
sometimes you just have to start all over again.
Let's see if I can recall what the whole basting thing is all about, shall we?
Reason #1 to Baste: When you are working with slippery, tricky fabrics that simply will not allow you to sew and go. Certain polyesters, satins, and other light flimsy fabrics will all benefit from some basting, because pins just ain't gonna cut it.
Reason #2 to Baste: When you need to make a larger piece fit into/onto a smaller piece, basting will allow you to "ease" or gather the fabric evenly for nice-looking results.
Reason #3 to Baste: If it's just plain hard to handle otherwise! Check out my zipper opening problem in the photo...
The other side of this zipper opening is heavy with fusible fleece and impossible to stay "pressed"; hence the basting... |
I'll finish this post with a helpful hint. Use a different coloured thread (ideally something highly visible) when you baste. You don't want to confuse your actual stitching with your basting stitching. (I mistakenly purchased extra red thread when I was making my first tote bag, so that has become my basting thread of choice!)
By the way, be sure to come back next week as I will reveal the Mother's Day present that I made for my mom...
I agree with the reason #1 and reason #2 (zippers are perverse!) to baste. For the fitting of larger/smaller pieces I just use pins, as I do when I make my clothes.
ReplyDeleteWhatever works. I just know that sometimes basting is unavoidable. (And I've heard people say that zippers are just plain evil. :-0 )
DeleteThanks for stopping by!