Before the discovery of the sewing machine, garment-making was done only by hand. However,
in today’s time, very few garments are made entirely by hand. But, many home and custom-made
garments continue to have some type of hand stitching used mainly as finishing techniques
(hemming, securing buttons, etc.). Thus, knowing and understanding the proper use of various
stitches is important to the item’s appearance as well as its function and long life. Fine,
skilfully made hand stitches are symbols of quality in both hands sewn and ready to wear
apparel.