Sewing is the art of joining fabric pieces together using needle and thread, and it can be done by machine or by hand. The purpose of sewing can be both functional and decorative. Sewing can be used to make clothes, repair them, or create other sewn masterpieces. Surgeons can also use sewing to close wounds. When sewing, one can use different techniques, ranging from the simple act of threading a needle to more involved techniques relating to dressmaking and tailor-made haute couture. Some examples of sewing techniques include sewing a rip, sewing a patch, and hemming pants. The word "sew" comes from the Old English word "siwian," which means to stitch.