What stitch or technique prevents puckering on linen napkins?

[Lily.D]

I finally got my hands on some beautiful linen fabric for a set of napkins, but my usual straight stitch is puckering the edges terribly. I’m trying to figure out if there’s a specific stitch or technique for handling this kind of weave without it bunching up.

[Luke67]

I had the same problem with linen napkins. I found that using a longer stitch length helped a lot, around 2.8 to 3.2 mm, and a sharp needle like an 80/12 or 90/14. A walking foot made the fabric feed more evenly, and I loosened the top tension a notch while testing on scraps. I even tried laying down a scrap tissue under the edge to reduce drag, then pulled it away before finishing. It didn't vanish overnight, but the puckering dropped.

[David.S]

Baste first by hand along the seam allowance, then sew. It keeps the edge from shifting and gives you a little room to adjust before the machine grabs it.

[Mia99]

Could the puckering be from the edge finish rather than the stitch?

[Natalie_J]

I drifted off thinking about how humidity and pressing can make a big difference in how the fabric behaves, and I suspect a good press with the right starch and a gentle touch could help even when the stitch isn’t the culprit.