How to Do a Hand Look Quilt Stitch by Machine

Did you know you can create a hand-look stitch with your sewing machine? This technique is created by using Transfil monofilament thread in the needle and 50 weight Mettler Silk Finish cotton quilting thread in the bobbin. The bobbin thread pulls to the top at intervals, creating a look that resembles hand stitching.

Many machines have a built-in stitch to create this look. Check with your local dealer or in your manual to see if you have a specific stitch for this technique. If your machine does not have this option, but has memory capabilities, you may be able to combine straight stitches with a backstitch to get a similar look. A triple straight stitch can also give a similar look with some tension and length tweaking.

Here are some tips for creating this look:

1. Thread your needle with Mettler Transfil monofilament thread in smoke or clear. Use smoke for dark fabrics and clear for light fabrics. If you are not sure which to use, spool a little onto your fabric. Whichever thread "disappears" on the fabric is the one you should use.

2. Thread your bobbin with Mettler Silk Finish thread in 50 weight. Choose a color with high contrast to your fabric. A high contrast between the thread and the fabric emphasizes the hand-look.

3. Tighten your needle tension. The amount of change will vary by machine. A few machines will actually automatically adjust the tension when you select the hand-look quilt stitch, so check your manual first.

4. Use a size 90 topstitch needle. This will make a bigger whole in the fabric to allow the bobbin thread to pull back through.

5. Experiment with this stitch on a scrap piece before using it on your actual project. You may need to make slight adjustments in the tension or stitch length to get the look you want.