Pick stitch

A pick stitch in sewing is a simple running stitch that catches only a few threads of the fabric, showing very little of the thread on the right side (outer side) of the garment. It is also sometimes known as 'stab stitch'.

A pick stitch can be made from either the inside of the garment or the outside, depending upon how much thread is meant to show on the outside of the garment.^[1] A pick stitch is commonly used for making hems, although it is also used with contrasting thread to create a decorative finish on some garments. It has decorative uses in embroidery. It is exceedingly useful for inserting zips and is surprisingly strong for this purpose. Many home-sewers and new dressmakers find this much easier than inserting zips by sewing machine.

A pick stitch along the outside of a lapel is a hallmark of a "high-end, hand-made" men's suit or blazer.^[2] A finely made pick stitch is difficult to accomplish but can be achieved with practice.

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  A pick stitched hem using thread that closely matches the colour of the fabric, appearing almost invisible on the outside of the garment.

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  A pick stitch in contrasting thread creating a decorative embroidery outline inside the petals of a fabric poppy.

References

1. Shaeffer, Claire (2011). Claire Shaeffer's Fabric Sewing Guide. Krause Publications. p. 77. ISBN 9781440223426.
2. Maitra, K.K. (2007). Encyclopaedic Dictionary of Clothing and Textiles. Mittal Publications. p. 321. ISBN 9788183242059.