What is the term for a row of regular machine stitches through a single layer of fabric?

The term for a row of regular machine stitches through a single layer of fabric is staystitching. This technique is primarily used to prevent the fabric from stretching or distorting, especially on curves, such as the necklines or armholes of a garment. By adding a staystitch, the fabric is secured in its shape, which allows for more accurate sewing of subsequent pieces, ensuring a better fit and appearance of the final product. Staystitching is an essential step in garment construction, particularly when working with delicate or stretchy fabrics that can easily lose their shape during the sewing process.

In contrast, the other techniques serve different purposes, such as basting, which is a temporary stitch used to hold layers together; topstitching, which provides a decorative or reinforcing stitch on the external surface; and hemstitching, typically used for decorative edges or hems. Each of these has its unique application in sewing and construction, differentiating them from the function of staystitching.