Alternating Twisted Chain stitch
This hand embroidery stitch is a variation of the classic Chain stitch, where the needle takes an alternate path through the fabric, creating a twisted appearance. This technique produces a visually striking effect, perfect for adding dimension and depth to your embroidery projects. The stitch can be worked in a straight line or curved, allowing you to easily create beautiful floral stems, intricate outlines, and decorative borders.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or just starting your embroidery journey, the Alternating Twisted Chain Stitch is a must-have in your stitching repertoire.
Applications of the Alternating Twisted Chain stitch
The versatility of this variation of the Chain stitch makes it a valuable addition to your embroidery toolbox. Here are some creative applications of this stitch:
- Floral Embroidery: Use the stitch to create stunning floral stems, leaves, and vines, bringing nature’s beauty to your designs.
- Outline and Borders: The stitch’s twisted appearance makes it ideal for outlining motifs and adding decorative borders to your embroidery projects.
- Textured Fillings: Experiment with filling larger areas using rows of Alternating Twisted Chain stitches, giving your designs a unique and textured finish.
- Monograms and Lettering: Add elegance to monograms and lettering using the Alternating Twisted Chain stitch for smooth, sophisticated outlines.
How to embroider Alternating Twisted Chain stitch
- Mark the line for the desired path of your embroidery.
- Take the needle up on the line. Pass the needle to the fabric close to the starting point, above the thread, and leave the loop.
- Take the needle up on the line, one stitch to the right.
- Twist the thread forming the loop and pass the working tread inside the loop. Tighten the loop.
- Push the needle down into the fabric under the Chain you just created.
- Twist the loop and push the needle on the marked line inside the twisted loop.
- Continue making twisted chain stitches. Position the stitches alternately – one above the chain stitch and the next – under the chain stitch.
More Variations of the Chain stitch
Video tutorial
If you are a visual learner, watch a video tutorial below or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel. In this video, you’ll find easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions that will have you creating the Alternating Twisted Chain Stitch like a pro in no time.
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!
Need More Guidance?
The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.
