A basting stitch is a temporary sewing stitch used to hold layers of fabric together before the final stitching is done. It is typically longer and looser than regular stitches, making it easy to remove later. Basting stitches can be done by hand or with a sewing machine, and they help ensure that the fabric pieces align correctly during the sewing process. This technique is particularly useful in quilting, garment construction, and other sewing projects where precision is important. By using a basting stitch, sewists can adjust the fabric as needed before committing to permanent stitches, ensuring a better final result.