When embroidery stitches are sewn, the needle tends to pull fabric inwards. This can cause:
3Fabric puckering
3Small gaps between shapes
3Distorted outlines
To counteract this, ‘pull compensation’ makes stitches extend slightly beyond the outline of objects. This ‘overstitching’ helps keep shapes neat and filled, even on stretchy fabrics.
Tip: Underlay stitching, backing, and topping also reduce push-pull distortion, and should be combined with pull compensation for best results.