Reverse Chain Stitch Tutorial – A Different Approach
Did you know there is more than one way to make a chain stitch? The reverse chain stitch is essentially the same stitch as a chain stitch but it’s worked backwards.
You may be wondering if there are any benefits to doing it this way and if it looks any different…it’s virtually impossible to determine which way the stitch was worked, so this method is purely preference.
As for benefits, I find that this method allows me more control over the stitch length; I’m able to get the individual stitches smaller, neater, and more even.
It’s also the way that a heavy chain stitch and a Hungarian braided chain stitch are set up.
Some downsides: it may be more challenging to work this stitch if you prefer to use the sewing technique over the stabbing technique when you embroider. And it doesn’t work for the magic chain stitch.
However, I recommend giving it a try because it may become your first choice for making this stitch!
How To Do The Reverse Chain Stitch
This stitch is worked top to bottom if you’re working a vertical line on the fabric. And if you’re working along a horizontal plane, it is worked in the opposite direction of a basic chain stitch.
Step 1: Make a small stitch along a marked line.
Step 2: Skip a stitch length ahead, coming up through the fabric along the line with needle and thread.
Step 3: Place your needle under the small stitch and pull the working thread through.
Step 4: Come back down with your needle and thread at the bottom of the last stitch. This will form the first chain stitch.
Step 5: Skip a stitch length ahead, coming up through the fabric.
Step 6: For the rest of the chain stitches, place the needle under the previous chain stitch.
Step 7: Go back down at the base of the last stitch, which will form the next chain stitch.
Repeat steps 5-7 the desired length.
Pretty simple, right? Try this out and see if it helps you achieve a neater stitch!
Learn more embroidery stitches
Amanda is a hand embroidery teacher and artist. With over 15 years of experience in the craft industry and embroidery, she owns and runs Crewel Ghoul, sharing accessible tutorials and patterns to help inspire fellow crafters to get creative. In addition to running this website, she teaches on Skillshare and Youtube.
