S titches are ordered here by complexity and with similar stitches grouped to gether. A handy alphabetical index of the stitches can be found on page 32.
Running Stitch
The running stitch is worked using a basic, almost intuitive in-and-out motion of the needle. This stitch is typically used to outline a shape. It can be worked in any length, but it should be kept consistent throughout the area being stitched. Running stitch is also functional and can be used to sew pieces of a project together or to baste.
Double Running Stitch
Double running stitch is a decorative stitch worked in two passes of regular running stitch, creating a solid line of stitching. It can be worked in a single color or in two colors.
Whipped Running Stitch
Whipped running stitch is worked in two passes. The first pass is the basic running stitch, and the second pass is worked in a whipping motion using a different color, creating a ropelike effect.
Laced Running Stitch
Laced running stitch is worked through one or more rows of running stitch, with a second color of thread passing in and out of the stitches like a shoelace. Work the lacing through several rows of running stitch for a wider border or through just two rows for a narrower line of stitching. Theres no limit to the number of rows of possibilities when using this stitch; several variations are shown here.
Straight Stitch
Straight stitch is just a single stitch, but it can be used in different lengths and in groups to make other stitches or motifs. In this example, three straight stitches have been used to make a decorative, repeating element in a border.
Backstitch
Backstitch is used to outline a shape and is worked in a motion of two steps forward and one step back. To work the stitch, bring the needle up through the fabric a stitch lengths distance from the starting point and insert the needle at the starting point, working the stitch backwards. Bring the needle up again a stitch lengths distance from the first stitch and continue working in this manner to the end.
Threaded Backstitch
After working a length of backstitch, work a second color of thread in and out of the stitching similar to the threaded running stitch. You can work the threaded pass through a single row of backstitch or through multiple rows to create a wider band of stitching.
Stem Stitch/Outline Stitch
Stem stitch is a basic stitch that produces a solid line of stitching. This stitch can be used to outline shapes or as stems and tendrils in a project.
The stitch is worked by taking tiny stitches backwards along the outline of the shape. The working thread is held below the needle, with each stitch slightly covering the previous stitch. Rows of closely spaced stem stitch can also be used as a filling stitch. A similar stitch called the outline stitch is worked in the same manner, but with the thread held above the needle. The stitches can be used interchangeably.
Split Stitch
Split stitch forms a solid line of stitching and can be used to outline a shape, to create stems and tendrils, or to outline an area that will be filled with satin stitch. To work the stitch, bring your needle up through the fabric at the starting point and take a stitch forward. Bring the needle up through the fabric at the center of the stitch you just made, splitting the stitch before inserting the needle into the fabric again to make the second stitch.
Chain Stitch
Chain stitch forms a thicker line of stitch with a decorative, chained effect. It can be used to outline shapes or as a filling by working closely spaced rows of stitching. The stitch is worked by forming a loop around the tip of the needle, with the needle insertion point in the same location as when you brought the needle up through the fabric. Each subsequent stitch starts inside of the previous stitch, forming a chain.
Square Chain Stitch
This stitch is worked in the same manner as standard chain stitch, with the exception that the insertion point for the needle is a slight distance from the original entry point, giving the stitches a squared appearance.
Detached Chain Stitch
Detached chain stitch is similar to chain stitch; however, instead of making a chain of multiple stitches, you make a single looped stitch, held in place with a small tacking stitch at the opposite end of the loop. Detached chain forms the basis of the lazy daisy stitch.
Lazy Daisy Stitch
The lazy daisy stitch is not a stitch per se, but instead is the name given to a group of detached chain stitches when they are worked in a flower pattern. Work just a few stitches to make a light, airy flower, or work the stitches densely packed to make a bolder bloom.
Double Chain Stitch
This stitch is worked similarly to a standard chain stitch. The difference is that instead of following a center line while stitching, you work along two parallel lines, giving the finished stitch a pretty zigzag effect.
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