Even if you have a sewing machine, there will be times when a pattern calls for some basic hand embroidery stitches. These are often used for decorative sewing and are great for toy sewing patterns.
Here are the 6 most common types of hand embroidery stitches.
BASIC HAND EMBROIDERY STITCHES
1.Back stitch
- Take a small back stitch in the fabric and bring the needle up in front of the first stitch.
- Generally used for stitching seams or for decoration. Great for sewing doll mouths and noses.
- This is one of the strongest hand stitches for seams.
- For a stronger seam use very small stitches
2. Running stitch
- Short up and down stitches
- Generally used for stitching seams or for decoration.
- This is the fastest and easiest hand stitch to do but is not very strong
- For a stronger seam use very small stitches
3. Blanket stitch
- Blanket stitch can be used for sewing a decorative edge on blankets, toys and sewing projects. It can also be used to sew 2 pieces of fabric together and creates a nice strong seam.
- You will often see blanket stitch used with thicker embroidery threads
4. Satin stitch
- Satin stitch is used for purely decorative purposes. Stitch flowers, leaves, circles – in fact any shape you can think of.
- It is great for stitching eyes and cheeks on toys and dolls.
- Create a frame to stitch within either with small straight stitches or removable pen or chalk. Then stitch from side to side.
5. Whip stitch (applique stitch)
- Whip stitch is generally used to either close gaps in seams or to applique pieces on fabric.
6. Ladder stitch
- Use to invisibly close folded edges. Use in doll making to close stuffed bodies and in reversible garments to close gaps.
- Take a small stitch through the folded edge of the fabric then another through the fabric on the other side of the gap.
- For a strong invisible finish, use small stitches in a matching color.
What will you be sewing with your basic hand embroidery stitches? Do you have another favorite not covered here? Please share below.
READ MORE IN MY HAND EMBROIDERY STITCHING SERIES
- PART 1 – Hand Embroidery Stitches – 6 basics
- PART 2 – How to Sew a Seam by Hand – Running Stitch and Backstitch
- PART 3 – How to Sew Whip Stitch
- PART 4 – How to Backstitch
- PART 5 – How to Sew Blanket Stitch
- PART 6 – How to Sew a Ladder Stitch for an Invisible Closure
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