How To Embroider A Chain Stitch
This step by step tutorial will show you how to embroider a chain stitch, a basic and fundamental embroidery stitch that everyone should learn. It looks a lot more complicated than it actually is and is relatively simple and easy to do, which makes it perfect for beginner!
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For this example, I am using perle cotton thread. If you’re a beginner just starting out, this type of thread is great for learning because the strands are braided and won’t separate or get tangled while you’re stitching.
What is a chain stitch used for?
Although it is technically an outline stitch, which is normally used for decorative outlines, borders and embroidering letters, you can get creative and use the chain stitch in more unconventional ways too. Repurpose it to fill in large areas that you want to add more texture to. Instead of using a fill stitch like the satin stitch, you could use it to embroider flower petals.
If you enjoy this tutorial, check out this page that features even more embroidery stitches to learn.
Want to learn even more embroidery stitches?
This workbook is NOT your usual stitch encyclopedia. Most embroidery books don’t actually show you how you can use each embroidery stitch and they also don’t come with many tips. This workbook is packed full of helpful information to make you a better, more confident stitcher.
It comes with:
- embroidery stitch tutorials
- helpful tips for each stitch that will maximize your learning and improve the way your embroidery looks
- fun, modern embroidery patterns you can use to learn the stitches with ease
Chain Stitch – Step By Step
Time needed: 5 minutes
How To Embroider a Chain Stitch
- Step One – Starting
Come up through the fabric with your needle and thread.
Then take your needle back down the first hole you came up through and up a little in front of that first stitch, grabbing the fabric.
Wrap the thread around the tip of the needle. - Step 2
Pull the thread through. This will form a loop.
- Step 3
Repeat this process until you’ve reached the desired length.
- Step 4 – How to End a Chain Stitch
To finish the stitch, go back down through the fabric at the top of the last loop you make.
Once you’re comfortable with this stitch, I recommend learning how to do a magic chain stitch. This stitch uses 2 alternating colors and it’s so fun and colorful!
Amanda is a hand embroidery artist and teacher. With over 15 years of experience in the craft industry and embroidery, she owns and runs Crewel Ghoul, sharing tutorials and patterns to help inspire fellow crafters to get inspired and creative. In addition to running this website, she teaches on Skillshare and Youtube.