How to Stitch a Barred Chain Stitch

The barred chain is a fairly easy stitch if you are familiar with the single chain and twisted chain stitches. The barred chain is a repeated pattern worked down a designated line for borders or curved lines. You can use any thread or ribbon as well as spacing to vary the size of the stitch. Read on to learn how to stitch a barred chain stitch.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Draw the design on the fabric or use a direct transfer method. Take care when drawing on the fabric with pencil. Use pouncing to mark the design on darker fabrics.

2. Center the design over the embroidery hoop. Set the second hoop in place and tighten it over the first hoop. Attach larger pieces to a frame.

3. Use a fade-out marker to designate a line for the barred chain stitch if no line exists as part of the transfered design. Work in a downward motion from the top of the line.

4. Bring the needle to the front of the fabric. Make a single chain stitch. Keep the stitch flat and even against the fabric but not pulled tight.

5. Pierce the fabric inside the top of the loop of the previous chain and bring the thread through. Make a twisted chain stitch the same size as the first single chain stitch. Alternate the two stitches for the length of the line.

6. Weave the ends of the threads under a few stitches to secure them. Trim the threads so that the backside of the work is neat.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't knot threads on the backside. They will show through the finished work.

Resources

• Source for Patterns, Supplies and Accessories