15 Basic Hand Embroidery Stitches You Should Know (2024)

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Embroidery

Learning hand embroidery is fun and relaxing, plus it's an easy way to create beautiful art with fabric and thread.Getting started in embroidery means understanding some basic embroidery stitches. Most patterns only require a few basic stitches, learn these 15 embroidery stitches, and you should be able to tackle most embroidery projects.

• 01 of 15

  Backstitch

  

  Backstitch is so easyto learnthatyou'll have it down within the first few stitches.This basic stitch is likely to be the stitch you'll use the most. Backstitch is useful for any kind of outlining, but it's also a stitch that pairs well with other stitches, making it a key stitch to learn.

  It'salso easy to embellish with weaving orwrapping, and quickly transforms into the more decorative Pekinese stitch.

• 02 of 15

  Running Stitch

  

  See Also

  Types of Embroidery: Stitches and TechniquesHow to Embroider - Beginner BasicsWhat Is Embroidery and What Are the Main Types of Embroidery? | Blog | DomestikaHow to embroider: A complete guide to embroidery for beginners

  Running stitch is a simple embroidery stitch that is good for making dashed outlines and adding details to your embroidery. It's also the basis forJapanese sashiko embroidery.

  Although basic, it's adaptable and can become complex. For example, you can change the look by adjusting the length and spacing or adding a second row of stitches between the first. It's also another stitch that works well with weaving and wrapping.

• 03 of 15

  Straight Stitch

  

  The ​straight stitchhardly requires an explanation, becauseit is as simple as bringing the needle up through the fabric and then going back down. But it's worth exploring the many uses for this building block embroidery stitch.

  Use the straight stitch to form stars, scattered fills, textures and more. Practice length and placement so you can work this versatile stitch into your work.

• 04 of 15

  French Knot

  

  For many stitchers,makingFrench knotsremains a challenge. While it may take time to learn, it's worth the effort. Not only is this a common stitch to find in embroidery patterns, but it's also a good stitch to use when making a textured fill or other design elements.

  This stitch involves wrapping the needle to form a knoton the surface of the fabric. The trick to making French knots is to hold the working thread taut, but not too tight. Give it some practice.

  Continue to 5 of 15 below

• 05 of 15

  Stem Stitch

  

  Stem stitch is another basic stitch that's perfect for creating smooth outlines. It works well for both straight lines and curves, and despite its name, it isn't only for embroidering stems. Use a stem stitch on just about any lines in your stitching.

  Like so many stitches, you can adjust the width of stem stitching or use it for fill stitching. Just try to keep your stitch length consistent to create a beautiful result.

• 06 of 15

  Chain Stitch

  

  If you want a bolder line of embroidery, then chain stitch is the stitch for you. Chain stitch forms a row of linked stitches that really stands out.

  There are several ways to work the chain stitch and it's a good idea to at least learn how to work it forwardand in reverse. Once you have those mastered, try some of the other variations.

• 07 of 15

  See Also

  The Ultimate Embroidery Quick-Start Guide

  Satin Stitch

  

  One of the most classic embroidery stitches for filling an area is the basic satin stitch. There are a few variations, but at its essence, satin stitch is a series of straight stitches worked next to each other. What could be simpler?

  The secret to making those straight stitches turn into something special is in practicing the length and proximity of the stitches. The result is a filled shape that is simply stunning.

• 08 of 15

  Feather Stitch

  

  Feather stitch is a linked stitch that creates open lines that almost look like they're moving. It's perfect for making frames and borders, and it works well layered or embellished with other stitches too.

  The look of feather stitch makes it good for stitching seaweed, foliage, feathers, or scales, and the variations make it possible to embroider a multitude of natural designs.

  Continue to 9 of 15 below

• 09 of 15

  Split Stitch

  

  Try split stitch as another option for making outlines.The process for working split stitch is similar to working backstitch, but upside down. In fact, the back of your work will end up looking like the front of the backstitch.

  Use this stitch, which is made by piercing or splitting the previous stitch, for working strong and slightly textured lines of embroidery.

• 10 of 15

  Detached Chain Stitch

  

  A detached chain stitch sometimes referred to as a single chain, is a common stitch for making flowers, leaves and more. This stitch is worked as a standard chain stitch, but with just one "link."

  Detached chain stitch is what makes lazy daisy flowers, which are typically formed with five of six of these stitches.

• 11 of 15

  Fly Stitch

  

  The fly stitchis worked similar to a detached chain stitch, but rather than making a petal or teardrop shape, fly stitchforms a V shape or sometimes a soft curve.

  Try fly stitch in a row, scattered as fill, stitched in a radius, or plenty of other variations.

• 12 of 15

  Woven Wheel Stitch

  

  Woven wheel stitch looks like a more advanced embroidery stitch, but it's actually quite simple. Start with a star of straight stitches and then weave the working thread to form a flower. Soon you have a stitch that will fill your hoop with amazing florals.

  Continue to 13 of 15 below

• 13 of 15

  Couching Stitch

  

  Although not always included in lists of stitches for beginners, the couchingstitch is an embroidery method that everyone should know. This stitch uses two lengths of thread at one time. One remains on the surface of the fabric, while the other holds it in place with tacking stitches.

  Use this stitch for making outlines, creating texture, or filling an area. It even works with ribbon, yarn,and other materials.

• 14 of 15

  Blanket Stitch

  

  Starting the blanket stitch is usually the trickiest part, but once you start, it's so easy to do. Use this stitch to make borders and decorative lines or as an edge for applique within your embroidery.

  Add variation to the stitch by adjusting the spacing and height of the stitches.

• 15 of 15

  Bullion Knot

  

  Definitely the most advanced stitch on this list, bullion knots are not for the faint of heart. But they are a stitch you should learn. Think of them as a really long french knot that can make gorgeous roses. Practice making them small and then start making them bigger. You'll be glad to know this one.