feather-stitch
Definition
Noun:
- Decorative sewing stitch: "feather-stitch" refers to a type of embroidery or sewing stitch that creates a zigzag or branched pattern resembling a feather. It is often used for decorative purposes on clothing, linens, or hems.
Verb:
- To sew using a feather-stitch: The action of applying this specific stitch to fabric, typically for ornamental effect.
Usage Examples
Noun:
- The dress was adorned with a delicate feather-stitch along the collar. (A decorative zigzag stitch used for embellishment.)
- She learned the feather-stitch in her sewing class. (The technique of making this stitch.)
Verb:
- He feather-stitched the edges of the blanket for a finished look. (He sewed the edges using the feather-stitch technique.)
- The artisan feather-stitches the fabric to create a textured pattern. (The artisan applies the stitch as part of the design.)
Advanced Usage
"to feather-stitch a seam": to finish or decorate a seam with this specific stitch.
- The tailor feather-stitched the seam to prevent fraying. (The tailor used the stitch for both function and decoration.)
"feather-stitch pattern": a design or motif created by repeated use of the feather-stitch.
- The quilt features a feather-stitch pattern in contrasting thread. (The quilt has a decorative design made with this stitch.)
Variants and Related Words
Feather-stitching (n): the process or result of sewing with a feather-stitch.
- The feather-stitching on the pillowcase is very intricate. (The decorative stitching itself.)
Feather-stitched (adj): describing fabric or item that has been adorned with a feather-stitch.
- The feather-stitched hem adds elegance to the skirt. (The hem is finished with this stitch.)
Synonyms
- Zigzag stitch: a sewing stitch that moves in a back-and-forth pattern, similar to feather-stitch but less decorative.
- Herringbone stitch: another decorative stitch with a V-shaped pattern, sometimes confused with feather-stitch.
Idioms and Fixed Phrases