Reversed Fly Stitch
Reversed Fly Stitch is a decorative variation of the Fly Stitch and consists of two fly stitches, positioned one above another.
This hand embroidery technique is highly flexible – you can adjust the sizing of the stitches, place them at different angles, and use the spacing between the elements to create various surface patterns.
On the reverse side, you will see the jumping threads between the stitches. As the back side of the fabric will not look nice, avoid using this technique in projects where both sides of the fabric are visible.
Applications of the Reversed Fly Stitch
You can use this detached decorative stitch for decorative elements or powdered filling. Besides that, you can position the stitches in a row to create a decorative border.
More stitches from Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Reversed Fly Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Reversed Fly 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 Reversed Fly Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Start with a Fly Stitch. Take the needle to the surface, then push it back down into the fabric, one stitch away. Leave the loop of the working thread open.
2. Bring the needle to the surface between the ends of the first stitch and inside the loop. Tighten the loop to create a V shape.
3. Anchor the thread with a small straight stitch.
4. Now repeat the steps to make one more Fly Stitch and form a Reversed Fly Stitch. Start with a loop.
5. Bring the needle to the surface and tighten the loop.
6. Anchor the second Fly 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 basic embroidery stitches to complex and playful variations of classical techniques, a whole world of stitches is waiting for you to explore and master. So, grab your hoop and needle, and let’s stitch together!
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Need More Guidance?
The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.
