Sewing: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for making or repairing clothes or other items using a needle and thread.

• She spends her evenings sewing clothes for her children
• Many people find sewing to be a relaxing hobby

Refers to the specific action or method of making stitches, can be used in both general sewing and more detailed, specific work.

• The stitching on this dress is very delicate
• He spent the afternoon stitching patches onto his jacket

Used to describe decorative stitching and embroidery, often a hobby or artistic endeavor, involving detailed and intricate work.

• Her needlework was displayed at the local craft fair
• She enjoys needlework and often makes beautiful embroidered pillows

Specifically associated with making, adjusting, or repairing clothing, typically to fit a particular individual; often used in a professional setting.

• She took the dress to a professional for tailoring
• His father taught him the art of tailoring

General term for creating or repairing clothing, textiles, and other items using a needle and thread.

• She enjoys sewing as a hobby.
• He is very skilled at sewing buttons onto shirts.

Specifically refers to repairing damaged or worn items, usually clothing or fabric.

• She spent the evening mending her torn dress.
• He is great at mending old socks.

Refers to a woman who sews, often in a professional capacity.

• The seamstress altered my wedding dress perfectly.
• She has been a seamstress for over twenty years.

Refers to a man who sews, typically in a professional capacity. Less common than 'seamstress'.

• The seamster worked diligently on the bespoke suit.
• He is a talented seamster who makes custom clothing.

General term for the act of joining or repairing with stitches.

• She took up sewing as a hobby
• The sewing of the dress took several hours