How to Sew a Straight Line

Last Updated: August 5, 2022 Tested

Sewing a straight line isn't a difficult task with the right tools and tips. You can either sew a straight line by hand or with a sewing machine. This wikiHow will teach you how to do so.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Hand Sewing a Straight Line

1
Get your fabric ready. Pre-wash you fabric. Washing your fabric is important, since it can shrink.
2
Pull the thread through the eye of a sewing needle.

Advertisement
3
Draw a guide. Draw a straight line onto your fabric. Use special sewing chalk or washable pens that are easily removable.
- Use something straight - a book, cardboard, boxes or a simple ruler - to draw a line that is truly straight. This line will be your guide through the sewing process.
4
Tie a knot at the end of the thread to make sure the end of the thread doesn't go through the fabric.
5
Finish the straight line and tie off the thread. Go through the loop of the last stitch to secure it. Make another stitch and go through this loop one more time. Pull tight and weave in the loose ends.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Sewing a Straight Line Using a Sewing Machine

1
Get your fabric ready. Pre-wash it.
2
Use a guide. To help you make a straight line while sewing, you will need something to guide you.
- Some sewing machines have a seam guide engraved in the machine. It will help tremendously while sewing straight lines.
- If you don't have a seam guide on your machine or it isn't helpful for you, try using a headband, elastic or tape, to wrap around the arm of your sewing machine.
3
Start your sewing line with a backstitch and carefully and slowly guide the fabric through your sewing machine with the seam guide, headband, elastic or tape to guide you.
4
Use a backstitch to secure the thread to finish the seam. Cut the loose ends with a pair of scissors.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I sew a straight stitch?

Community Answer

Make sure your sewing machine is set on straight stitch. Also, make sure your feed dogs are down so that it will guide the fabric straight through under the needle and stop it from slipping around.