Common Embroidery Machine Stitches
Many different types of stitches are used in embroidery. All of
the different stitches have been given names so that they can be
identified. Most of the stitches are quite simple to master,
although, the finished results may look as though they are quite
complex. Some of these stitches are described below.
The back stitch is used for outlining shapes. The blanket stitch is
used as an edging so that the article will not fray; this may also
be used as a decorative chain stitch. A chain stitch is a sequences
of stitches which are looped to form a chain. It serves constructive
as well as decorative purposes.
Cross-stitch is a counted thread embroidery stitch wherein x-shaped
stitches are grouped to form a picture. Stitches used in
cross-stitching include 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4, as well as backstitches.
Cross-stitch can be used on fabric that is even-weave and can be
countable. It may also be used on non-countable fabric wherein
countable fabric is applied, then later removed by drawing out the
thread underneath the embroidery. Fabric of this type is called
waste canvas. The threads are counted in each direction by the
stitcher so that the stitches will all be identical in size and
appearance. Cross-stitching is a very popular type of embroidery.
Cross-stitching can also be accomplished on designs which are
printed on the canvas which reveal the cross couching. This is done
by sewing a thread to a piece of fabric. These special couching
stitches include pendant couching, Bokhara couching, square laid
work, fly stitch, looped stitch (which can be for repeated or random
patterns), Holbein stitch and knot stitches.
The knot stitches include bullion knots, French knots, lazy daisy
stitch, running stitch, stem stitch and whip stitch.
The bullion knot stitch is generally used as a filling stitch on in
a line. In order to form a bullion knot, twist the thread around the
needle several times. Then insert it at the desired location (from
top to bottom) and pull it through to form a knot. This stitch is
used to create flowers (often the center portion) and is the stitch
most often used in Brazilian embroidery.
The colonial knots are predominately used in candle wicking. The
knots are produced by forming a figure 8 around the needle.
French knots are probably the most commonly known of the embroidery
knots. They are accomplished by wrapping the thread around the
needle one or two times.
The lazy daisy stitch is common in American embroidery. it is
described as a loop stitch that is held to the material at the wide
end by a small tacking stitch. These stitches are also known as
detached chain stitches.
The running stitch is a common stitch, also known as a stem stitch
or whip stitch. These stitches are often used for lines and stems of
flowers. They may also be used as infill stitches.
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