The Stitches
Backstitch
Use this simple stitch to make the classic “dotted line.” Insert needle from wrong side to right, coming out at 1. Reinsert nearby (2), pull back out (3), and tighten thread. Repeat, making stitches and spaces even in size.
Satin Stitch
When filling in the outlines of a design that incorporates shape or width, these side-by-side stitches are the ones to use, and are either made at an angle or straight across.Insert needle from wrong to right side, coming out at 1. Insert needle at 2, and pull it back through at 3, right next to 1. Keep the stitches tight and flat for a smooth finish.
French Knot
Use the French knot to create a raised point in a pattern. Insert needle from wrong to right side. Holding thread taut with one hand, wrap it twice around the needle close to fabric (1). Reinsert needle, as close as possible to where it first emerged (2), keeping thread taut. Pull needle through to back, continuing to hold thread tight until you have a 3- to 4-inch loop, then let go and finish the knot.
Blanket Stitch
As its name implies, the blanket stitch is most often used to finish blanket edges. It can also create a decorative edge when you keep the base of the U along the fabric’s edge. For lightweight fabrics, stitch along the finished edge. Insert the needle from wrong to right side, coming out at 1. Insert at 2. Come out again at 3; hold the thread under the needle with your thumb as you pull tight.
Stem Stitch
The stem stitch, which is similar to the running stitch, creates a ropelike effect. Insert needle from wrong to right side, coming out at 1. Insert the needle at 2 at a slight diagonal, and pull through at 3 (halfway between 1 and 2). Repeat stitching, keeping thread on the left side of the needle and making sure stitches are all the same length.
Long and Short Stitch
This is the stitch to use when you want to blend colors or create a feathery texture. Insert needle from wrong to right side, coming out at 1, insert at 2, come out at 3, and insert again at 4. Repeat for next tier. If desired, change colors and use the same technique for the following tiers, piercing the stitches in the previous tier.
Chain Stitch
The chain stitch is an open-loop stitch that can be worked on straight or curved lines. Insert needle from wrong to right side, coming out at 1. Making a loop, insert next to 1. Come out again at 2, holding thread under needle as you pull tight. Insert needle again next to 2 (inside new link), and continue.