Here’s a visual guide to some of the most common hand-embroidery stitches found in quilts and other sewing projects. 35 Basic Hand Embroidery Stitches
You're keen on getting started with embroidery, but still have a hundred questions? Find all of the answers in the Ultimate Embroidery Guide for Beginners!
This page gives you an idea of how the reverse of the basic stitches looks like. As a beginner, we are curious to know how the reverse or the back-side should end up - just to make sure that we are stitching the right way. So, I have picked the...
Learn all about the beautiful and versatile satin stitch. Discover the different types of satin stitches and how to create smooth fillings.
These tips for embroidering neatly are simple and will instantly improve the quality of your work! Start implement them today...
Here are 9 of my go-to hand embroidery stitches for filling in spaces, step-by-step instructions, and examples.
If you're a beginner at stitching, you might get confused why some artists use less number of strands, and the others more. What is the big deal? What is the difference at all? Can I work a pattern designed for using 6 strands, with 1 strand? And can I work a pattern design for 1-2 strands of thread, using 6 strands? Let's take it one step at a time :) Related posts: 10 tips for hand embroidery beginners Top 10 beginner mistakes in hand embroidery How many strands should I use? There is no correct answer for that because it depends purely on your taste. Take a look at the little chart below. Here I stitched short lines in stem stitch using from 1 to 6 strands of thread. As you can see, the difference between the first line and the last line is quite striking. In short, the more strands you use, the bolder and more raised and dimensional your stitching is. You also will need less time to work an element. And the lesser the number of strands, the more delicate and “flat” your stitching is. However, you will need more time to work the same element. It is also important to mention, that the thread consumption will be lower if you use a lesser number of strands. If you stitch with 6 strands all the time, be prepared that your skeins of thread will finish quickly. Speaking of time, stitching the same element with 1 strand of thread will take more time than with 6 strands. That's why, if you want to make some cash by selling your needlework, adjust your resources and time wisely. Stitching a larger scale artwork with 1 strand will take quite a lot of time and effort and you will need to charge quite a lot for it. If you want to charge moderately, it would be reasonable to increase the number of threads – it will speed up the process but it will increase expenses. Or you can stitch smaller works with 1 strand of thread – either simple, minimalistic designs, or something of a brooch scale. Yeah, it is tough maths! However, I hope that you choose what you ENJOY first! That is our priority, since making art that you are not enjoying is very sad :( Now, as for embroidery patterns, most of them are designed with a specific number of strands in mind. If you use a bigger/lesser number of strands, you will definitely get a different result than intended. Will it be better/worse - no idea. In the best-case scenario, it will be just as pretty but either bolder or more delicate. Sometimes switching up number of strands is not even possible. Because, let's say, a pattern designed for 1-2 strands may have tiny elements that will be very inconvenient to work with a bigger number of strands. In the end, it all boils down to your preference!
For beginners, advanced stitchers, and everyone in between, this page is full of hand embroidery stitches everyone should learn.
Learn different ways to start and end your embroidery stitches without using knots. I show you various methods for different stitches!
Learn how to do Chain stitch in 4 simple steps!
I'm spilling some major secrets of embroidery: here are some beginner embroidery tips and tricks as well as mistakes to avoid...
Sometimes as people are on their embroidery journeys, they ask me how they can stitch more neatly. This article is my attempt to answer that question based on what I’ve learned in my own stitching, rather than what I think is “good embroidery” and “the way you have to do things”. If you’ve had some
One of my favorite things about embroidery is that you only need a few essentials to start stitching. A lot of times you might already have a few supplies on hand! There are so many tools and accessories that can definitely help you along the way, but knowing what those items are can be very overwhelming in the beginning when you’re still learning the basics.
modest-mouth - Posts tagged Embroidery
A list of hand embroidery filling stitches. Description, photo, and video tutorials of each stitch. Click and choose your favorite filling stitch!
What is the running stitch and how do I use it? The running stitch consists of weaving embroidery floss in and out of the fabric,...
If you're a beginner at stitching, you might get confused why some artists use less number of strands, and the others more. What is the big deal? What is the difference at all? Can I work a pattern designed for using 6 strands, with 1 strand? And can I work a pattern design for 1-2 strands of thread, using 6 strands? Let's take it one step at a time :) Related posts: 10 tips for hand embroidery beginners Top 10 beginner mistakes in hand embroidery How many strands should I use? There is no correct answer for that because it depends purely on your taste. Take a look at the little chart below. Here I stitched short lines in stem stitch using from 1 to 6 strands of thread. As you can see, the difference between the first line and the last line is quite striking. In short, the more strands you use, the bolder and more raised and dimensional your stitching is. You also will need less time to work an element. And the lesser the number of strands, the more delicate and “flat” your stitching is. However, you will need more time to work the same element. It is also important to mention, that the thread consumption will be lower if you use a lesser number of strands. If you stitch with 6 strands all the time, be prepared that your skeins of thread will finish quickly. Speaking of time, stitching the same element with 1 strand of thread will take more time than with 6 strands. That's why, if you want to make some cash by selling your needlework, adjust your resources and time wisely. Stitching a larger scale artwork with 1 strand will take quite a lot of time and effort and you will need to charge quite a lot for it. If you want to charge moderately, it would be reasonable to increase the number of threads – it will speed up the process but it will increase expenses. Or you can stitch smaller works with 1 strand of thread – either simple, minimalistic designs, or something of a brooch scale. Yeah, it is tough maths! However, I hope that you choose what you ENJOY first! That is our priority, since making art that you are not enjoying is very sad :( Now, as for embroidery patterns, most of them are designed with a specific number of strands in mind. If you use a bigger/lesser number of strands, you will definitely get a different result than intended. Will it be better/worse - no idea. In the best-case scenario, it will be just as pretty but either bolder or more delicate. Sometimes switching up number of strands is not even possible. Because, let's say, a pattern designed for 1-2 strands may have tiny elements that will be very inconvenient to work with a bigger number of strands. In the end, it all boils down to your preference!
Using the long and short stitch and a few different methods and techniques, you'll be a pro at color blending in hand embroidery in no time.
There are variety of different types of embroidery threads you can embroider with. Learn about the characteristics and uses for each one.
Here are 5 quick tips for threading an embroidery needle that will make it way easier and less frustrating.
Finding it hard to choose the best among various types of embroidery designs available out there? Read this post and get help to make the right decision!
Details Are you a total beginner at embroidery and want to learn the basics? This stitch sampler is the perfect place to start! Learn 20 different embroidery stitches — 10 foundational stitches and 10 intermediate stitches. The video instruction series will be available on Instagram. You will need: 6-inch embroidery hoop 8x8-inch fabric Pen to transfer your pattern Size 3 and 5 needle Embroidery floss PLEASE NOTE — No physical product will be shipped to you with this purchase. Due to the nature of a downloadable product, I do not offer refunds or exchanges on PDF patterns. This PDF Download does NOT include any written directions and is intended to complement the video series on Instagram!
If you're a beginner at stitching, you might get confused why some artists use less number of strands, and the others more. What is the big deal? What is the difference at all? Can I work a pattern designed for using 6 strands, with 1 strand? And can I work a pattern design for 1-2 strands of thread, using 6 strands? Let's take it one step at a time :) Related posts: 10 tips for hand embroidery beginners Top 10 beginner mistakes in hand embroidery How many strands should I use? There is no correct answer for that because it depends purely on your taste. Take a look at the little chart below. Here I stitched short lines in stem stitch using from 1 to 6 strands of thread. As you can see, the difference between the first line and the last line is quite striking. In short, the more strands you use, the bolder and more raised and dimensional your stitching is. You also will need less time to work an element. And the lesser the number of strands, the more delicate and “flat” your stitching is. However, you will need more time to work the same element. It is also important to mention, that the thread consumption will be lower if you use a lesser number of strands. If you stitch with 6 strands all the time, be prepared that your skeins of thread will finish quickly. Speaking of time, stitching the same element with 1 strand of thread will take more time than with 6 strands. That's why, if you want to make some cash by selling your needlework, adjust your resources and time wisely. Stitching a larger scale artwork with 1 strand will take quite a lot of time and effort and you will need to charge quite a lot for it. If you want to charge moderately, it would be reasonable to increase the number of threads – it will speed up the process but it will increase expenses. Or you can stitch smaller works with 1 strand of thread – either simple, minimalistic designs, or something of a brooch scale. Yeah, it is tough maths! However, I hope that you choose what you ENJOY first! That is our priority, since making art that you are not enjoying is very sad :( Now, as for embroidery patterns, most of them are designed with a specific number of strands in mind. If you use a bigger/lesser number of strands, you will definitely get a different result than intended. Will it be better/worse - no idea. In the best-case scenario, it will be just as pretty but either bolder or more delicate. Sometimes switching up number of strands is not even possible. Because, let's say, a pattern designed for 1-2 strands may have tiny elements that will be very inconvenient to work with a bigger number of strands. In the end, it all boils down to your preference!
What is the chain stitch and how do I use it? The chain stitch is made up of several interlocking loops, or single chain stitches....
find out how to use the right carbon paper to transfer your hand embroidery pattern to dark fabric with great results
Learn how to do Stem stitch - perfect for plant stems or vines!
Photo by Ngoc Minh Ngo for Martha Stewart Living It’s no surprise to you all that I adore embroidery. Just as you can add beautiful...
Embroidery is the ultimate stitch dictionary and the ideal guide to embroidery, whatever your level of expertise. The perfect reference guide to needlework, Embroidery is a comprehensive guide to inspire and inform sewers of all levels. Find advice on which thread, needles, or fabrics work with which techniques, and take a look at an incredible 200 stitches — with levels of difficulty, step-by-step instructions, and ideas on where and how to use them. This practical guide covers sewing tips for dressmaking, needlepoint, and embroidery stitches, with detailed information simply presented in illustration-rich pages. With Embroidery, it's easy to find exactly which stitch is right for your next sewing project. Whether you’re already an expert, just starting out, or are looking for a new hobby at home, Embroidery is an informative resource for all crafters. Paperback Edition.
Learn how to start and end embroidery stitches with this easy to follow tutorial featuring three simple methods.
Download this free embroidery sampler pattern to practice all of your embroidery stitches. I have a video guide for each one so even beginners can learn!
You can do a French knot - I promise! In this tutorial, I give you step by step instructions with photos and a video tutorial.
Burden stitch is a lovely stitch for filling areas of your embroidery. It creates a good texture and can be stitched in different ways to mix this up.
Now, this is not exactly a “secret”... but it is also hardly ever brought up, although I do see beginners making this mistake. Congratulations on the 10th post of the needlepainting tips! Wow, who could have thought that there is so much to explore in this area of hand embroidery?? But let me tell you, I actually have more topics to cover! They are just waiting for their turn, haha. Today's topic, in my opinion, is quite important to grasp if you want to master needlepainting, especially, if you want to work some projects by other embroidery artists and work them close to the instructions. So even though the subject might be a little confusing please bear with me. I hope you will get the idea by the end of the post. And if it still leaves you confused you can always ask away in the comments or through a direct message! So, the long and short stitching rows. Usually, when you take a pattern, whether it be someone else's design or your own, you have there marks for long and short stitching rows and placement of colors. These marks are transferred to the fabric along with the pattern, or if the pattern doesn't have them, you can add them yourself with a pencil to make things easier for yourself. And you follow these marks while you're adding the colors on your needlepainting project. Right? Well, there is one mistake that beginners tend to do at this point. And the reason is because experienced stitchers don't talk about it often. So, naturally, if there is no source to learn this little detail, the only way to get to it is through your own trials and failures. But today we will tale a shortcut! The mistake First of all, let's take a look at the mistake itself. Actually, calling it a “mistake” is probably too strong of a choice of word. There is nothing wrong with that. More like, this is the most logical way to work long and short stitching when you look at diagrams in stitching encyclopedias. It's just that diagrams leave a lot unsaid... 1. So, here we have a petal shape to fill in with long and short stitching. There is a certain change of colors through four rows and for each of them you can see marking inside the shape. The first logical thing that a beginner would do here is work the first row of long and short stitches which would end where the marking goes. Logical, right? 2. Except that, we forget, that when we stitch the second row, we pierce through the stitches form the first one. Which means that the lower part of the first row will be hidden. 3, 4. The same with the other rows. Each row is laid upon the previous one, which in turn makes the lower part of the previous row stay underneath the new stitches. What does it bring as a result? You can compare how the rows are supposed to look and how they actually turned out in the picture above. The upper row turned out very short because we didn't consider the fact that half of it would be hidden. And it led to the lowest row being too long compared to what it supposed to be. If you look closely at the picture in the right and make out the pencil markings, you will realize that the third row started where the second one was supposed to start, and the fourth one started where the third one was supposed to start. So the rows moved one step up. There are situations where it is not really critical. However, if you want to make your project closer to the original of someone else's work or closer to what you have in your mind, then there is just one simple thing you need to fix. The secret 1. The whole great secret is, in fact, very very simple. Just end the stitches of each row around the middle of the next one. As you see in this picture, the guiding stitches are ending in the middle of the next row. 2. After completing the whole first row, you can see that all of my stitches end approximately at the same level. Now look at the guiding stitches for the next row – they also end in the middle of the next row. 3. You can see that the stitches of the second row start at different places of the first ones – some are placed lower, some are placed higher. This variation is what “long and short” stitching is actually about, and this is what makes color blending easier. You can end your stitches in different ways as well – some shorter, some longer. But I prefer to end them all approximately at the same level. 4. And so, the third and forth rows are worked the same way. In the end, you can see that the placement of rows and colors is approximately the same as it was planned with the markings. Right? So, that's what diagrams often leave behind the scenes. Hope it helps you in your next project, and don't forget to check the other needlepainting tips!
If you’re ever curious about stumpwork embroidery, but don’t know where to start, we’ve got just the tutorial for you! Our easy-to-follow instructions will have you stitching away like a pro…
To see the tutorials for each stitch family, click on the links below. back stitch blanket stitch chain stitch chevron stitch cross stitch feather stitch fishbone stitch fly stitch herringbone […]
The waste knot method is definitely the easiest and fastest I've come across for starting and finishing your embroidery threads.
Details Are you a total beginner at embroidery and want to learn the basics? This stitch sampler is the perfect place to start! Learn 20 different embroidery stitches — 10 foundational stitches and 10 intermediate stitches. The video instruction series will be available on Instagram. You will need: 6-inch embroidery hoop 8x8-inch fabric Pen to transfer your pattern Size 3 and 5 needle Embroidery floss PLEASE NOTE — No physical product will be shipped to you with this purchase. Due to the nature of a downloadable product, I do not offer refunds or exchanges on PDF patterns. This PDF Download does NOT include any written directions and is intended to complement the video series on Instagram!
Hand embroidery tips: how to use variegated thread
Closed Feather Stitch is another variation of the feather stitch. While the feather stitch has open ends, this has closed ends. It results in a beautiful
You won't want to miss these 9 little known embroidery tricks that are sure to save you time and frustration...
Are you interested in learning hand embroidery and looking for the right supplies? It's often difficult to determine what you really need to get started, without overdoing it! Here are the essential beginner hand embroidery supplies you'll need to get started stitching today.