Do you know there are more than 100 types of embroidery? Every sewist knows about three to five types of embroidery. If you want to improve your embroidery skills to have more fun and earn more money, sewing machine buffs can help you learn about different types of embroidery stitches.

To learn all these sewing stitch types, you need patience and practice.

Before you learn all these embroidery stitch types, let us know a little about them.

Types of Embroidery Stitches Every Sewist Needs to Know

Running Stitch

It is the most basic stitch type that almost all sewers know. This stitch is commonly used to create an outline of a design. This stitch type can create anything from a basic stitch to embroidery. Running stitch is also known by the name straight stitch. This embroidery stitch is mostly required in hand-sewing and tailoring to stitch some basic seams, hems, and gathers. It can also be used for quilting to hold the fabric layer. Watch this You Tube video to see how to do a running stitch.

Embroidering the Running Stitch is a simple and versatile hand-stitching technique. It is commonly used in embroidery and sewing projects to create lines, outlines, and even fill areas.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Running Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the stitch Push the needle back down through the fabric, a short distance away from the starting point. The length of your stitches can vary depending on your project, but for the Running Stitch, shorter stitches are typical.

Step 5: Repeat the stitch Bring the needle up again from the backside, just ahead of the first stitch. Make sure to leave a small space between each stitch.

Step 6: Continue stitching Repeat steps 4 and 5 until you reach the end of your desired line or area. Keep your stitches as even and straight as possible.

Step 7: Secure the thread When you reach the end, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 8: Practice and experiment The Running Stitch is a foundation stitch and can be used creatively in various embroidery designs. Practice the stitch on scrap fabric to improve your technique and experiment with different thread colors and stitch lengths.

Remember, embroidery is a relaxing and enjoyable craft. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your personal touch to your projects. Happy stitching!

Backstitch

The backstitch is a very thin line stitch used to outline a design before filling it up with a satin stitch. This stitch type can also be a base stitch for many composite stitches. You can also use this stitch to add fine details to your embroidery work.

Embroidering the Back Stitch is another popular and versatile hand-stitching technique used in embroidery and sewing projects. It creates a solid line and is often used for outlining shapes, adding fine details, and creating lettering.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Back Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the first stitch Decide on the length of your first stitch (usually short, but it depends on your design). Now, instead of moving forward, move backward along your design line. Push the needle down through the fabric, a short distance ahead of the starting point.

Step 5: Complete the first stitch Bring the needle back up through the fabric, but this time, insert it at the end point of your first stitch. This creates a backward stitch, which is the defining characteristic of the Back Stitch.

Step 6: Continue stitching Move backward along your design line, creating stitches in the same manner. For each stitch, bring the needle up at the end of the previous stitch and then insert it back down at the desired length ahead.

Step 7: Secure the thread When you reach the end of your design or need to change thread, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 8: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is key to improving your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, stitch lengths, and patterns using the Back Stitch to add depth and interest to your projects.

The Back Stitch is a simple and versatile stitch, allowing you to create both straight lines and curves. Have fun and let your creativity shine through in your embroidery! Happy stitching!

Stem Stitch

The stem stitch can be easily used if you want to create a design that involves embroidering a flower stem. This beginner-friendly stitch type doesn’t require too many skills or practice. This stitch type also creates an outline for other embroidery stitches. You can also use this type to create curved and straight lines.

Embroidering the Stem Stitch is a lovely way to create smooth and delicate lines in your embroidery projects. It is commonly used for outlining shapes, flower stems, and other fine details.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Stem Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the first stitch Decide on the length of your first stitch. This will be the length of each stitch in your design. To start the stem stitch, insert the needle back into the fabric slightly ahead of the starting point, to the left of the stitch line.

Step 5: Complete the first stitch Bring the needle up again from the backside, directly in line with the starting point. The needle should come up right on the stitch line, where the thread exits the fabric.

Step 6: Continue stitching Now, insert the needle back into the fabric slightly ahead of the last stitch, but this time to the right of the stitch line. The needle should follow the curve of the stitch line.

Step 7: Repeat the stitch Bring the needle up again from the backside, directly in line with the last stitch. The needle should come up on the stitch line, creating a neat and smooth line.

Step 8: Secure the thread Continue repeating the stitch along your design line until you reach the end. When you’re done or need to change thread, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 9: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is essential to improve your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, stitch lengths, and patterns using the Stem Stitch to add elegance and dimension to your projects.

The Stem Stitch is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your embroidery work. Have fun and let your creativity flow! Happy stitching!

Lazy Daisy Stitch

The lazy daisy stitch type is often used to create flower and petal designs. This stitch design is not made continuously. To create the design, sewers make loops and then create a small stitch at the end of the loop. At the end of stitching, you will get an image of a daisy petal.

Embroidering the Lazy Daisy Stitch is a delightful way to create small, petal-like shapes that resemble flowers, leaves, or other decorative elements in your embroidery projects. It’s a simple and versatile stitch that can add charm and dimension to your designs.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Lazy Daisy Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the loop Decide on the size of your petal or loop. To create the first petal, position the thread over the starting point and insert the needle back into the fabric, very close to where the thread came out.

Step 5: Anchor the loop Hold the thread loosely in place with your non-dominant hand to create the loop. Make sure the loop is rounded and forms a “C” or “U” shape.

Step 6: Secure the loop Insert the needle down into the fabric a short distance away from the starting point, securing the loop in place. This will complete the first petal.

Step 7: Repeat the stitch To create more petals, repeat steps 3 to 6. For each new petal, bring the needle up at the starting point of the next petal, create the loop, and secure it by inserting the needle back down.

Step 8: Finish the Lazy Daisy Stitch Continue adding as many petals as you desire, or as specified in your design. When you’ve finished, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 9: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is crucial to refine your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, petal sizes, and arrangements to create a variety of flower and leaf designs using the Lazy Daisy Stitch.

The Lazy Daisy Stitch is a delightful and versatile stitch that can add a touch of whimsy to your embroidery projects. Enjoy exploring its possibilities and have fun with your creative endeavors! Happy stitching!

 

Seed Stitch

The seed stitch is a subtype of a running stitch.Many embroiders call this rice stitch. When doing this stitch, ensure that the knits and purls will never attack each other. The little purl bumps that this embroidery will create a technique and pattern that will look like rice.

Embroidering the Seed Stitch is a simple and charming hand-stitching technique that creates a scattered pattern of small, seed-like stitches. It is commonly used for filling small areas, adding texture, and creating a dotted effect in embroidery projects.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Seed Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the first seed stitch Decide on the size of your seed stitches. Seed stitches are typically small and random in placement. To create the first seed stitch, insert the needle back into the fabric a short distance away from the starting point.

Step 5: Complete the first seed stitch Bring the needle back up through the fabric, a short distance away from where the thread emerged. Make sure the stitch length is consistent with your desired seed stitch size.

Step 6: Continue stitching Continue creating random seed stitches across the area you want to fill or add texture to. Vary the stitch lengths and spacing to give the appearance of scattered seeds.

Step 7: Randomize the stitches The key to the Seed Stitch is randomness. Try to avoid creating a regular pattern and keep the stitches scattered and varied in length.

Step 8: Fill the area Continue filling the area with seed stitches until you achieve the desired effect. You can use different thread colors to create a more interesting and textured look.

Step 9: Secure the thread When you’ve completed the seed stitch filling, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 10: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is essential to improve your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, seed stitch sizes, and arrangements to create various effects and textures using the Seed Stitch.

The Seed Stitch is a delightful and versatile stitch that can add a unique touch to your embroidery projects. Enjoy playing with its randomness and have fun with your creative endeavors! Happy stitching!

Herringbone Stitch

The herringbone is one of the most versatile stitch types. It is most commonly used to stitch and hem garments. The herringbone stitch is also known by the name catch stitch or plaited stitch. If you want to create a herringbone stitch, you must draw a parallel line to ensure that you get an even stitch between the stitching.

Embroidering the Herringbone Stitch is a classic and versatile hand-stitching technique that creates a striking pattern of interlocking diagonal lines. It is commonly used for borders, filling areas, and adding texture in embroidery projects.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Herringbone Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the first stitch Decide on the length of your first stitch. To start the Herringbone Stitch, insert the needle back into the fabric a short distance away from the starting point and at a downward angle.

Step 5: Complete the first stitch Bring the needle up again from the backside, a short distance away from where the thread emerged in step 4, and at an upward angle. The needle should be diagonal to the first stitch.

Step 6: Repeat the stitch Now, insert the needle back into the fabric at a downward angle, parallel to the first stitch. This completes the first half of the Herringbone Stitch.

Step 7: Interlock the stitches Bring the needle up again from the backside, a short distance away from the second stitch’s starting point, and at an upward angle. The needle should be diagonal to the second stitch and interlock with it.

Step 8: Continue stitching Continue repeating steps 6 and 7 to create a row of interlocking diagonal stitches. The stitches should form a “V” or herringbone pattern.

Step 9: Complete the row When you reach the end of the row, turn your work around and create another row of interlocking stitches parallel to the first row.

Step 10: Fill the area or create borders Continue creating rows of Herringbone Stitches to fill the desired area or create borders in your embroidery project.

Step 11: Secure the thread When you’ve completed the Herringbone Stitch, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 12: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is essential to improve your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, stitch lengths, and arrangements to create various effects and textures using the Herringbone Stitch.

The Herringbone Stitch is a beautiful and versatile stitch that can add depth and elegance to your embroidery projects. Enjoy playing with its angles and have fun with your creative endeavors! Happy stitching!

Detached Chain Stitch

The detached chain stitch is perfect for creating a daisy flower-like pattern or any other flower-like embroidery. It is a looped embroidery stitch type that is a subtype of chain stitch. The shape of the embroidery looks like a teardrop. If you want to create motifs, no other stitch type can be as good as the detached chain stitch type.

The Detached Chain Stitch, also known as the Lazy Daisy Stitch, is a popular and versatile hand-stitching technique used in embroidery to create small, petal-like shapes. It is commonly used to create flowers, leaves, and other decorative elements in various embroidery projects.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Detached Chain Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the petal shape Decide on the size of your petal or leaf shape. To create the first petal, position the thread over the starting point and insert the needle back into the fabric, very close to where the thread came out.

Step 5: Form the petal Hold the thread loosely in place with your non-dominant hand to create the petal shape. Make sure the loop is rounded and forms a half-circle or “C” shape.

Step 6: Secure the petal Insert the needle back into the fabric, right next to the starting point and inside the petal loop, securing the loop in place. This completes the first detached chain stitch.

Step 7: Continue stitching To create more petals, repeat steps 3 to 6. For each new petal, bring the needle up at the starting point of the next petal, create the loop, and secure it by inserting the needle back down.

Step 8: Finish the Detached Chain Stitch Continue adding as many petals as you desire, or as specified in your design. You can use different thread colors to create a more interesting and colorful effect.

Step 9: Secure the thread When you’ve completed the detached chain stitch elements, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 10: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is essential to refine your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, petal sizes, and arrangements to create various flower and leaf designs using the Detached Chain Stitch.

The Detached Chain Stitch is a charming and versatile stitch that can add a touch of elegance to your embroidery projects. Enjoy creating beautiful floral motifs and let your creativity blossom! Happy stitching!

Fly Stitch

The result of the fly stitch will look much like a flying bird once you complete the embroidery perfectly. The fly stitch is created similarly to a detached chain stitch. But, instead of creating a petal or flower-like structure, you must make a V-shaped structure or a soft curve.

Embroidering the Fly Stitch is a versatile and fun hand-stitching technique used in embroidery to create V-shaped stitches that resemble flying birds or leaves. It is commonly used for decorative borders, floral elements, and adding texture to embroidery projects.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Fly Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the starting point of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the first stitch Decide on the length of your first stitch. To start the Fly Stitch, insert the needle back into the fabric a short distance away from the starting point and at a downward angle.

Step 5: Form the “V” shape Bring the needle up again from the backside, a short distance away from where the thread emerged in step 4, and at an upward angle. The needle should be diagonal to the first stitch.

Step 6: Complete the first stitch Insert the needle back into the fabric at a point very close to where the thread came out in step 5, and at a downward angle. This creates a “V” shape, which resembles a flying bird.

Step 7: Continue stitching Repeat steps 4 to 6 to create a row of Fly Stitches. Space the stitches evenly, leaving a consistent gap between each stitch.

Step 8: Use for leaves or petals If you want to use the Fly Stitch to create leaves or petals, adjust the length and angle of the stitches accordingly. For leaves, create longer and more pointed stitches.

Step 9: Finish the row or shape When you reach the end of the row or shape, turn your work around and create another row of Fly Stitches parallel to the first row.

Step 10: Secure the thread When you’ve completed the Fly Stitch elements, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 11: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is essential to refine your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, stitch lengths, and arrangements to create various effects and textures using the Fly Stitch.

The Fly Stitch is a lovely and versatile stitch that can add movement and dimension to your embroidery projects. Enjoy using it for decorative elements and explore its potential for creating unique designs. Happy stitching!

Woven Wheel Stitch

The single-name stitch is also known as the woven wheel stitch. This is one of the most amazing embroidery stitches you will ever learn. The stitch will create a rose-like embroidery. The embroidery may look complicated to create, but it is one of the easiest stitch types you will learn instantly. All must do is to create numerous stitches that are bundled in a circle and create a bloomed rose flower.

The Woven Wheel Stitch, also known as the Spider Web Stitch or Rose Wheel Stitch, is a beautiful and intricate hand-stitching technique used in embroidery to create a circular or flower-like design. It is commonly used as a decorative element and can add a touch of elegance to embroidery projects.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to embroider the Woven Wheel Stitch:

Materials you’ll need:

1. Fabric (cotton, linen, or any other embroidery-friendly fabric)
2. Embroidery hoop (optional but recommended to keep the fabric taut)
3. Embroidery floss or thread (choose a color that complements your project)
4. Embroidery needle (size should match your thread)
5. Scissors

Step 1: Prepare the fabric Cut the fabric to your desired size, leaving some extra space around the edges if you plan to frame it or use it for another purpose. If necessary, place the fabric in an embroidery hoop and tighten the hoop to keep the fabric taut.

Step 2: Thread the needle Take a single strand of embroidery floss or thread and thread it through the eye of the embroidery needle. Tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Step 3: Start the stitch Bring the needle up from the backside of the fabric to the front at the center of your design. Hold the end of the thread at the back to keep it in place.

Step 4: Create the first spoke Decide on the number of spokes you want for your Woven Wheel Stitch. For example, let’s start with six spokes. To create the first spoke, insert the needle back into the fabric, just outside the center point, and bring it up at the desired distance to the right of the starting point.

Step 5: Complete the first spoke Insert the needle back down into the fabric, directly across from the ending point of the first spoke, and bring it up again at an equal distance to the left of the starting point. This forms the first spoke of your Woven Wheel.

Step 6: Continue creating spokes Repeat steps 4 and 5 to create the remaining spokes until you have six evenly spaced spokes around the center point.

Step 7: Weave the thread Now, bring the needle up from the backside at the center point again. Weave the thread over and under the spokes in a circular manner, always passing the needle under the spoke that the thread last emerged from.

Step 8: Complete the Woven Wheel Continue weaving the thread until you fill the entire area inside the spokes, creating a woven and wheel-like pattern.

Step 9: Secure the thread When you’ve completed the Woven Wheel, turn your work over and secure the thread by creating a small knot on the backside of the fabric. Trim any excess thread with scissors.

Step 10: Practice and experiment As with any embroidery technique, practice is essential to refine your skills. Experiment with different thread colors, the number of spokes, and weaving patterns to create various effects and designs using the Woven Wheel Stitch.

The Woven Wheel Stitch is a beautiful and intricate stitch that can add a touch of sophistication to your embroidery projects. Enjoy using it for decorative elements and explore its potential for creating stunning circular designs. Happy stitching!

Couching Stitch

The most important point you must know about the couching stitch is that the technique uses two strands of thread simultaneously. One strand of the thread remains on the fabric’s surface, while the other strand tackles the stitching process.