Home Science — Clothing

Subtopic: Uses of Stitches on Clothes

Stitches are little loops or lines made with a needle and thread. They help make and care for clothes. These notes are for learners (about 9 years old) in Kenya. They are short and easy to read.

Why do we use stitches?

• To join pieces of cloth (make clothes like school shirts).
• To repair tears so clothes last longer (save money for your family).
• To finish edges so cloth does not fray (look neat).
• To attach buttons and patches (help fix school uniforms).
• To decorate clothes (nice designs on kitenge or dresses).

Common stitches and what they do

1. Running stitch — simple stitch. Good for seams and gathering. (← used for quick joining)
2. Backstitch — strong stitch. Good for places that pull, like underarms.
3. Overcast / Whip stitch — wraps the edge so cloth does not fray.
4. Hemming stitch — neat stitch to shorten trousers or skirts.
5. Button stitch — used to sew buttons on shirts and school uniforms.
6. Decorative stitches — pretty designs on kitenge or collars.

Where you might see these in Kenya

• Fixing a torn school uniform after playing during break.
• Stitching a button back on a school-shirt or blouse.
• Hemming school trousers that are too long.
• Adding patterns or edging to kitenge fabric for a celebration.
• Mending a hole in a jacket during rainy season.

Simple drawing: Running stitch (look from above)

Materials you need (simple kit)

• Needles (ask an adult which size).
• Thread — choose a colour that matches your cloth.
• Small scissors or thread cutter.
• A button or patch to fix.
• A thimble (optional) — ask an adult to help use it.

Safety rules

• Always ask an adult to help when using needles or scissors.
• Keep needles in a safe box when not using them.
• Work in a clean place with good light.

Short activity: Sew on a button (with an adult)

1. Thread the needle and tie a small knot at the end of the thread.
2. Place the button on the cloth where it belongs.
3. Push the needle from the back of the cloth through one hole of the button.
4. Go down through the opposite hole and pull tight.
5. Repeat 4–6 times so the button is strong.
6. On the back, tie a knot and cut the extra thread.

Fun tip: Learn one stitch well (like the running stitch). It helps you do many repairs. Mending clothes is useful at home and at school.