Interlaced Running Stitch Tutorial

The interlaced running stitch is a fun decorative stitch commonly used for borders. This stitch looks great when used with contrasting colors. You can use any kind of embroidery thread you want – pearl cotton, stranded cotton, and crewel wool are a few great choices.

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interlaced running stitches tutorial

Interlaced Running Stitch

This stitch involves weaving under stitches. If you find it hard to interlace the thread under the stitches without the thread snagging, it’s helpful to use a tapestry needle.

Foundational Running Stitch

Start by making a basic running stitch.

running stitch step 1

Make a stitch along the marked line.

running stitch step 2

Skip a stitch length ahead and make another stitch. Continue the desired length.

Interlacing the Stitch

For this example, I’ll work the stitch from bottom to top. Switch to a tapestry needle if you’re using one.

interlaced running stitch step 1

With a new strand of thread, come up slightly to the left of the base of the first stitch.

interlaced running stitch step 2

Place your needle and thread under the first stitch from left to right.

interlaced running stitch step 3

Proceed under the next stitch with your needle going under the stitch from right to left. Pull the thread through until it forms a gentle curve along the side of the stitches. Avoid pulling the working thread too tight.

interlaced running stitch step 4

Place your needle under the next stitch from left to right.

interlaced running stitch step 5

Proceed under the next stitch from right to left.

interlaced running stitch step 6

Continue alternating down the line of running stitches. When you reach the end, place your needle at the top of the last stitch.

interlaced running stitch step 7

Now we’ll repeat this process again starting along the opposite side of the stitches.

interlaced running stitch step 8

It’s easiest to place your needle underneath both the running stitch and the interlaced thread on the opposite side.

interlaced running stitch using blue and yellow embroidery thread

Interlaced Running Stitch Variations

This stitch is fun because you can play around with different designs and variations.

working a double interlaced running stitch

This example interlaces across a double line of the running stitches.

double interlaced running stitch using yellow and green thread

This is just one example – there are endless designs and patterns you could create with this stitch. Kantha embroidery is one style of embroidery where you’ll see this particular technique used a lot. Check out Kantha: Sustainable Textiles and Mindful Making by Ekta Kaul for a very interesting read and even more inspiration and ideas.

Want to learn even more intricate stitches similar to this one? I think you’ll find this raised embroidery stitch sampler fun.

I hope you had fun creating with me…until our threads cross again!

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