Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chainstitching? 

Historically, chain stitch embroidery was used for work-wear and western wear...think name patches on work jumpsuits letterman jackets & cowboys. The machines that chainstitch are unique from other sewing machines in that they are hand-steered and operated using a handle underneath the table which allows for free-flowing lines & lettering. Today, there are very few original machines still in existence and only a few manufacturers who still make the machines. Artists like myself are truly keeping the art alive as there is very little education and information left.

Do You Live Embroider at Live Events, Parties, or Weddings?

You betcha! I have honed my setup especially for live embroidery events. I am fully insured and equipped for all kinds of event types and situations from large corporate events to small private gatherings, including flying with my equipment and machine to wherever your event is located. Inquire about your event today! I'm based out in Chattanooga, TN but will travel to where your event is located.

What Can You Embroider On? 

Chainstitching is most effective on heavy woven fabrics like canvas, felt, and denim. To varying degrees of success, I can stitch on other materials, the rule of thumb is the less stretch something has the better the piece will turn out. If you are just dying to have chainstitching on your stretchy item, I recommend a single-line monogram or hand-sewing one of my pre-made patches. 

How do I care for my chainstitched piece?

To clean: Dry cleaning is ultimately preferred, but machine washing on delicate or hand-washing on cold and laying flat to dry is adequate for more used items such as tees, sweatshirts, bandanas or beanies. Jackets and large patches should be dry cleaned, or spot cleaned at home for best results. Do not bleach or iron directly on the chainstitched portion.


I’m Interested in Getting Started with Chainstitching, Where Should I Go?

I have an entire wishlist of helpful tools, parts and my preferred chainstitch supplies that I have compiled. Make sure to check that out if you're looking for anything in particular. I highly suggest getting connected with other artists on Instagram (peep the hashtags: #chainstitchembroidery #singer114w103), most folks are really open to answering your questions when you are kind to them, and I personally love to answer a specific question over a general "how do I get started?" which is a little tricker to answer. Much of the practice of chainstitching has to be discovered through trial and error and lots and lots of practice, so don't worry if it's taking you a while to get the hang of your machine. 

Tutoring: I now offer 1-on-1 tutoring sessions both virtually and in person at my embroidery studio here in Chattanooga, TN. I have broken my tutoring offerings into the following categories to try to cover different needs: 
  1. Discovery: Learn more about chainstitching & try out my studio machines (if you're local) before you take the leap. I can answer questions about purchasing a machine, what to look for, and the overall business if you're interested in that side.
  2. Chainstitch 101: Learn the basics of your chainstitch machine, maintenance, oiling, cleaning, stitch adjustments, materials, etc. Up to 4 hours of 1-on-1 tutoring plus access to text me photos of your work and shorter questions. 
  3. Ongoing Support: You have the basics down but need project-specific or maintenance support for your machine or would like to "pick my brain" about the business or events

You can book your tutoring virtually and in person using this link and filling out some information. I also require a deposit for booking, but we can always move your appointment(s) around if needed. 

No matter what: before ordering a machine off eBay, do your research as there are a lot of sketchy machines and parts out there and lots of people who try to take advantage of the rarity of these kinds of machines and lack of reliable info. 99% of the machines you see on eBay are complete fakes or misrepresented. I suggest watching Charecosew's video about how to spot fake machine parts on Singer 114 series chainstitch machines if you do decide to go the route of sourcing a vintage machine, and he also has a blog with great troubleshooting resources.

What machines do you have?

chainstitch embroidery machines vintage singer 114w103 singer 114e103 national consew 104 home studio

I now have 3 vintage chainstitch embroidery machines. I work on a Singer 114w103 and vintage National machine in my home studio and bring my Singer 114e103 to my live embroidery events and pop-ups.


Can You Chainstitch My Artwork? 

Right now, I’m really focusing on my own designs and artistry as well as events, but I am open to working with other’s artwork depending on what is it and other details. Feel free to fill out my custom chainstitch inquiry form with your artwork and what you’re envisioning. Keep in mind that I may refer you to another chainstitcher or maker depending on what you’re needing and my capacity and lead time.
Generative AI Policy: I have a no AI artwork policy, so please do not use generative AI to come up with ideas for your chainstitched piece. These machines are 100+ years old and I think we're all doing just fine on our own without artificial intelligence.
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    From conferences to weddings to retail activations, hire Kait to monogram on the spot for your guests.

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