Honeycomb Stitch

The Honeycomb Stitch is a decorative stitch that could be sewn alone or combined with other stitches to create unique embellishments.  It can also be used for elastic insertion and smocking.

Applications

Elastic Insertion

Insert elastic to your projects easily by sewing over the elastic with the Honeycomb stitch. For elastic that is 1/4" - 3/8" wide, place the elastic through the opening of the All-Purpose Foot. This will help keep the elastic from slipping from left to right as you sew. Hold the elastic from in front and in back of the presser foot, stretching the elastic as you do so.

Decorative Stitching

Use this stitch to embellish your sewing projects with a single row, multiple rows, or even in combination with other decorative stitches. For machine models with adjustable stitch length and/or stitch width, try various stitch length and/or width adjustments to change the look of the stitch as desired. It may be helpful to use a Satin Stitch Foot (additional accessory for some machine models)for denser stitch settings, as this foot has a groove on the underside to allow stitches to pass freely underneath. Experiment with various types of thread such as rayon thread, all-purpose thread, metallic thread, topstitching thread, or even 30wt and 12wt cotton. Be sure to use a needle that is appropriate for the type of thread you are using, and stabilizer to help support the fabric and stitches. Learn more about needles and stabilizers on the SINGER website.

Smocking

Sew the Honeycomb Stitch over gathered fabric to create smocking, often seen in children's clothing and vintage apparel. This technique works best with lightweight woven fabrics, like batiste or voile. Start by sewing several rows of basting stitches: sew 1 row, then a second row 1/8" inch from the first. Skip 1/2" and repeat, continuing for the amount needed for your project. Gather the basting threads. Place the gathered piece over a fabric interfacing or piece of organza. To sew the Honeycomb stitch, use a 30wt cotton in the needle, which will provide a hand-sewn look, and stitch over the basted rows.

Couching

Use this decorative stitch, sometimes called a Triple Domino stitch, along with a Cording Foot to add interesting surface dimension to your projects. The Cording Foot (additional accessory for some machine models) has grooves on top that help guide thin yarns or cords as you stitch over them. The stitch "catches" the cords to secure them to the fabric surface. Use a tear-away stabilizer underneath as you sew to help prevent fabric puckering.

Hemming

Use the Honeycomb Stitch to create sportwear-style hems on stretch knit fabrics. The stitch is flexible and will stretch when the fabric stretches. Turn up the hem allowance and pin the hem in place. Stitch from the top side of the garment, catching the raw edge of the hem on the back side as you sew. Use a polyester or all-purpose thread. Use a Ball Point Needle when sewing stretch fabrics, to prevent skipped stitches. Learn more about needles on the SINGER website.