TOPSTITCHING

Topstitching is a visible, decorative machine stitch laid on the face side of a piece along seams, edges or details. Besides décor, it plays a practical role too: it secures seam allowances, makes an edge firmer and crisper, and emphasises the construction of a piece. The best-known example is the contrasting (often yellow or tan) stitch on jeans, which became their signature. Topstitching is done in one or several parallel lines, of the same or a contrasting colour and thread thickness. It requires evenness and precision, since every flaw shows. In fashion it is valued for its ability to give a piece an 'expensive', neatly finished look. Topstitching is a technique of the visible seam as décor, in which an even, precise line of stitching combines the function of securing with aesthetics, emphasising the cut and adding neat, artisan finish to a piece.