Stitch in the ditch

Stitching in the Ditch is a method of stitching on the outside of the garment through all layers in the groove or ditch of the seam.
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By stitching in the seam or as close as possible to the seam it is possible to secure waistbands, facings and bindings to a garment neatly. The stitching holds down the layers without adding bulk.

In quilting stitching in the ditch is a method of machine quilting that provides the stability of quilting the layers together without adding a quilting line to distract from the design. Often it is used as the first step in machine quilting because it stabilizes the quilt invisibly.

Special feet for the sewing machine make this process easier. Look for a foot with a metal guides that will help the needle stay centered in the seam line.

This is an especially good technique for adding stability to stoles and chasubles.   The stitching can be hidden in the trim on the sides of orphrey bands.