Hand Stitching. Hand Sewing: The Basics. Many sewing projects require a small amount of hand stitching. Consider it aerobics for your hands and cross off that workout for the day. For information on selecting the right hand sewing needle, read Hand Sewing: Selecting the Right Needle for the Job . For information on selecting the right thread, read Selecting the Right Thread for the Job. Free Hand Sewing Stitches Chart from Fiber Images. Www.ca.uky.edu/hes/fcs/factshts/CT-MMB-002.pdf.