Long and Short Cretan Stitch
Long and Short Cretan Stitch is a variation of Double Cretan Stitch from the Cretan Stitch family. This stitch is fast and straightforward to make yet results in a very decorative laced band.
On the reverse side of the fabric, this embroidery stitch appear as two rows of vertical stitches of varying lengths.
Applications of the Stitch
Long and Short Cretan Stitch creates a decorative band with a laced center and spikes of two lengths. The stitch can be made with a single color thread or with two colors to accentuate the effect of the lacing.
This stitch works well on both straight and curved lines and can be used for borders, edges, and garment embellishments. Decorative bands stitched on the cuffs, neckline, or edges of clothing elevate the garments, making them look and feel special. You can combine the Long and Short Cretan Stitch with bead embroidery or use metallic or shiny, silky threads for an extra luxurious look.
Besides decorative edges, this stitch works great for crazy quilting and modern surface embroidery.
More stitches from the Cretan Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Long and Short Cretan Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn this decorative embroidery technique quickly. If you are a visual learner, watch a video lesson in the tutorial or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel to learn this hand embroidery stitch faster.
How to embroider Long and Short Cretan Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Mark the fabric with four parallel lines for guidance. Embroider a row of Cretan Stitch with long legs.
2. Now, add a second – mirrored row of the Cretan Stitch above the first one. The legs of the stitches in this row are short. Additionally, every second stitch is placed above the previous row.
3. And the second stitch – passes under the leg of the stitches from the previous row.
4. Experiment with different color combinations and lengths of the stitches to achieve various visual effects with the Long and Short Cretan Stitch.
Video tutorial
Tools and materials I used for this sampler
Disclaimer. To cover the cost of creating free embroidery patterns and video tutorials for this blog, I do sometimes link to products. Please assume these links are affiliate links. If you choose to buy through my links then THANK YOU – it will make it possible for me to keep doing this.
What’s next?
If you’re in the mood to explore more hand embroidery stitches, check out the Stitches and Techniques page for the list of other fantastic stitches available on my blog. From timeless classics to modern twists, a whole world of stitches is waiting for you to explore and master. So, grab your hoop and needle, and let’s stitch our way to creative bliss!
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Need More Guidance?
The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.
