How to Stitch a Stem Stitch
The stem stitch is generally used to outline a shape or, as its name implies, to create the stems in a floral design. It is also referred to as the South Kensington stitch, the crewel stitch and the stalk stitch, and can be worked in several variations.
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Instructions
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1
Trace the floral design onto the fabric. Draw the design with a marking pencil or a another type of transfer method. Designate the lines along which the stem stitch is to be worked.
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2
Place the fabric into an embroidery hoop. Pull the fabric and tighten the hoop. Keep the grain smooth, straight and taut as it is being worked.
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3
Hold the tail of the thread on the backside of the fabric and then secure it with the first few stitches. Don't knot the thread.
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4
Work from left to right. Make small, regular stitches moving back and forth along a designated line.
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5
Bring the thread to the front of the fabric and pick up a small bit of fabric. Keep the thread to the right of the needle and the needle to the left of the previous stitch.
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6
Work an outline stitch by working to the left of the needle. Create a slightly different stitch with this method.
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7
Finish the stem stitch by weaving the end of the thread under a few stitches on the back side of the fabric. Don't knot the thread to finish.
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