APPLIQUE
Stitching a small piece of fabric on top of another, usually for decoration. This can be done by hand often using blanket stitch or by machine using a zig zag stitch.
BACKSTITCH
Also called reverse stitch this is done at the beginning and end of a seam to prevent it from coming undone. It’s also used to describe an embroidery stitch where the stitches are worked backwards so they touch each other to form a solid line of stitching.
BIAS
This is the stretchiest part on the fabric which runs diagonally to the selvedge or straight grain of the fabric.
BINDING
A method to encase the raw edges of the fabric using a narrower strip of fabric. Ready-made bias binding can be used for this or fabric strips cut on the bias.
BOBBIN
A plastic or metal cylinder which holds the bottom thread of a sewing machine. Thread is wound on the bobbin and this lower thread loops with the upper needle thread to form the stitches
BODICE
The part of a garment which reaches from the shoulder to the waist. It can be attached to the skirt piece to form a dress.
