Which technique is used to reinforce stitching at the start and end of a seam?

Which technique is used to reinforce stitching at the start and end of a seam?

• A. Topstitch
• B. Backstitch
• C. Baste
• D. Seam Rip

Answer: (B)

Backstitch is used to reinforce stitching at the start and end of a seam. When you begin and finish sewing, you sew backward for a few stitches, then proceed forward along the seam, and often lock with a backward run at the end. Those reverse stitches grab the threads and trap the thread tails, so the seam won’t come undone under strain or after washing. This method is specifically about securing the ends of the seam, which is why it’s the best choice. Topstitch runs along the outside edge of the seam for durability or appearance but isn’t meant to lock the seam ends. Baste uses long, temporary stitches to hold fabric in place before final sewing, not to secure the finished seam. Seam rip is the act of removing stitches.

Backstitch is used to reinforce stitching at the start and end of a seam. When you begin and finish sewing, you sew backward for a few stitches, then proceed forward along the seam, and often lock with a backward run at the end. Those reverse stitches grab the threads and trap the thread tails, so the seam won’t come undone under strain or after washing. This method is specifically about securing the ends of the seam, which is why it’s the best choice.

Topstitch runs along the outside edge of the seam for durability or appearance but isn’t meant to lock the seam ends. Baste uses long, temporary stitches to hold fabric in place before final sewing, not to secure the finished seam. Seam rip is the act of removing stitches.