A fill stitch — often called tatami — covers a large area with rows of stitches. Direction, density, and pattern all affect how the finished fill looks and feels.
Working With Fill Stitches
- •Fills cover areas too large for a single satin stitch.
- •Stitch direction (angle) changes how light reflects off the fill.
- •Density controls how solid and heavy the fill looks.
- •Underlay beneath a fill stops it from sinking into the fabric.
- •Patterned fills add texture for a decorative effect.
How to Get It Right
- 1Keep density moderate so fills stay soft and don't pucker.
- 2Vary the fill angle between adjacent areas for contrast.
- 3Always include underlay under large fills.
- 4Lower density on lightweight fabrics.
- 5Use the preview to check coverage before stitching.
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If a fill looks heavy and stiff or causes puckering, reduce the density. Lighter fills are softer and lie flatter.