Definition

1. Noun:

   • A type of decorative needlework: Hemstitch refers to a form of embroidery or drawnwork where parallel threads are drawn out from the fabric and the remaining exposed threads are grouped and secured together with stitches, creating an open, lacy pattern.
   • A specific stitch used in this technique: It also refers to the individual stitch itself that is used to catch and bind the groups of threads.

2. Verb:

   • To sew using the hemstitch technique: To ornament or finish a piece of fabric, typically along a hem, by drawing threads and sewing the hemstitch.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The tablecloth was edged with a delicate hemstitch.
  • She learned how to do a hemstitch in her embroidery class.

• Verb:

  • She decided to hemstitch the border of the handkerchief.
  • The artisan will hemstitch the cuff to give it a refined finish.

Advanced Usage

• "Hemstitching" (gerund/noun): The action or process of creating a hemstitch.
  • The hemstitching on this blouse is exquisite.

Variants and Related Words

• Hemstitching (n): The technique or result of working a hemstitch.
• Drawnwork (n): A similar form of embroidery where threads are drawn from the fabric to create open designs, often incorporating hemstitch.

Synonyms

• Noun: Drawnwork, openwork.
• Verb: Embroider (in this specific technique), stitch.

Related Phrases

• "To do a hemstitch": To execute the specific stitch.
  • Can you show me how to do a hemstitch?

Noun

1. embroidery similar to drawnwork
2. a stitch in which parallel threads are drawn and exposed threads are caught together in groups

Verb

1. sew with hemstitches
   • hemstitch a sleeve