Anklet Stitch

Anklet Stitch is a very decorative variation of the Fly Stitch. The embroidery method is very similar to the Plaited Fly Stitch. But in this case, the group of two stitches form a decorative element made of triangles.

Applications of the Anklet Stitch

The Anklet Stitch is widely used in Indian embroideries. It is a traditional stitch used to embellish garments, scarves, and other textiles.

Anklet stitch can be used as a border stitch to decorate the edges or as a detached decorative element.

Anklet stitch embroidery with red thread row and detached motives — Anklet Stitch Embroidery with red thread – row and detached motives

Anklet stitch embroidery rear side — Rear side of the sampler

Traditional patterns with Anklet Stitch use groups of stitches positioned in a round to form a floral motif or in a square to make complex decorative elements.

In modern surface embroidery, the Anklet Stitch can become part of more complex decorative borders. Combining this stitch with French knots or a Detached Chain Stitch can create intricate floral borders. Adding beads to the stitch will create more luxurious outlines.

More stitches from the Fly Stitch family

Learn how to embroider Anklet Stitch

Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Anklet Stitch in no time. 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.

Anklet stitch embroidery with red thread small image

How to embroider Anklet Stitch

Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial

Instructions

1. Mark the fabric to position the stitches. Take the needle to the surface on the top left corner and make a stitch to the right. Leave the loop of the working thread open.

2. Take the needle up on the second mark, inside the loop, and tighten the loop to create a V shape.

3. Make a diagonal stitch down to the third mark. This stitch is slightly slanted to the left.

4. Take the needle up on the first mark inside the first Y stitch. Make a stitch to the right and form one more V shape.

5. Make a diagonal stitch down to the third mark, to the same point as the previous anchoring stitch. This stitch is slightly slanted to the right.

6. You can finish here with a detached Anklet Stitch motif or continue adding the stitches to form the decorative border.

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.

Embroidery fabric cotton linen neutral colors Etsy — Embroidery fabric

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!