Raised Chain Band Stitch
Raised Chain Band Stitch is a decorative variation of the Chain Stitch that is embroidered in two phases. First, we stitch a foundation that looks like a ladder, made with straight stitches. Then, a detached Chain Stitch is created over the foundation.
You can use the same thread for both a foundation and a Chain Stitch, or make them with two different-colored threads.
On the reverse side of the fabric, only the stitches of the foundation stitch are visible, as all the Chain Stitch lacing does not pierce the fabric.
Other names of the stitch
This hand embroidery technique is also called Raised Chain Band or Raised Chain Stitch.
Applications of the Raised Chain Band Stitch
This decorative band can be stitched on straight or curved lines and will look great as an embellishment of the garments or home textiles.
In decorative surface embroidery, you can use this technique for botanical embroidery, decorative lettering, bold outlines, or decorative edges.
More stitches from the Chain Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Raised Chain Band Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Raised Chain Band Stitch 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 Raised Chain Band Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Start with a foundation stitch. Make equally spaced Straight stitches that fill the entire line you want to embroider with a Raised Chain Band Stitch.
Note: If you plan to use the same thread for the foundation and for the Chain stitch, start making the foundation from the bottom upwards, as the band is made from the top downwards. This way, you will have your thread ready at the top of the band.
2. When the foundation is ready, take the needle up to the surface in the middle of the band at the top. At this step, you can change the color of the thread and also switch to a blunt tapestry needle for easier lacing.
3. Pass the needle above and under the first stitch of the foundation ladder. The needle moves upwards, and the wrap is formed on the left side of the straight foundation stitch.
4. Pass the needle under the same foundational stitch, but on the right side of the stitch. The needle moves down from top to bottom. This time, take the needle up through the loop of the working thread that has been created. Pull the thread to tighten the loop.
5. Repeat the lacing. First, lacing upwards on the left.
6. Then, the second passage of lacing on the right. Downwards and inside the loop.
7. Repeat this lacing in two steps on each of the straight stitches of the foundational ladder, till the entire Raised Chain Band Stitch design is stitched.
8. When the last stitch is tightened, pass the needle to the back and secure the thread in place.
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.
