Buttonhole bar stitch

Buttonhole Bar Stitch

Buttonhole bar stitch is one of the variations of the Blanket stitch. In essence, the Buttonhole bar is a Blanket stitch worked around the thread to create a bar detached from the fabric.

Applications Of The Buttonhole Bar

This hand embroidery stitch is widely used in Whitework and cutwork embroidery. Also, it is used in decorative embroidery to depict the raised bars in botanical designs. 

But besides the decorative purposes, this stitch has a practical scope – it creates the looped buttonholes for the garments and locker loops to hang the jacket.

If you plan to use the Buttonhole bar for buttonholes or locker loops – the foundation of the Buttonhole bar should be three or more threads. More threads can ensure the durability of the bar.

Buttonhole bar embroidery with dark red pearl cotton
The knots on the back of buttonhole bar stitch

Other Variations Of The Blanket 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 Buttonhole bar 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.

White sashiko stitches on purple fabric