In tailoring and garment construction, this refers to fabric panels or seams that lack temporary tacking stitches. Without basting, the layers can shift during final machine sewing, especially on complex curves or slippery fabrics. It can also describe a piece where the temporary stitches have already been removed after the permanent seam was set.
Heard on the job
Don't try to machine that armscye while it's unbasted or you'll get puckers all the way around.
Insider tip
Sewing unbasted seams requires heavy reliance on pins or clips, which can distort delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon.
Also heard as
- untacked