Temporary stitching used to hold fabric pieces in place during fitting or construction before permanent sewing. Basting stitches are long, loose, and easily removed once the final seaming is complete.
From Old French 'bastir' meaning to build or construct temporarily. The sewing term emerged in the 14th century, emphasizing the temporary, foundational nature of these stitches.
Haute couture houses still rely heavily on hand basting for fittings - those white basting threads you see in behind-the-scenes photos represent hours of meticulous work to ensure perfect fit before the final construction. Chanel's ateliers use silk thread for basting because it's strong enough to hold but gentle enough not to damage delicate fabrics!
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