Cloud Filling Stitch
Cloud Filling Stitch is a semi-covering open-filling stitch from the couching stitch family. Technically, it is a technique made by lacing, not couching. Still, the final result is very similar; therefore, I listed this embroidery technique in the couching stitch group.
Cloud Filling Stitch is made in two steps. First, we embroider the lines of equally spaced, small, straight stitches. Then, we add lacing to create a filling motive, similar to Trellis filling. Usually, we use two contrasting colors to embroider this stitch.
On the reverse side of the fabric, only the jumping threads between small anchoring stitches will be visible. All the lacing thread will stay on the surface of the fabric, with only knots or anchoring stitches visible on the back.
Other names of the Stitch
This hand embroidery technique is also known as Mexican Stitch or Cloud Stitch. Ukrainian interlaced running stitch has a similar appearance. Still, its lacing technique is different – instead of zig-zag rows, the filling is made in diagonal lines.
Applications of the Cloud Filling Stitch
Cloud Filling Stitch is a hand embroidery technique used for filling large areas with decorative motives. The stitch works up fast and does not require a lot of practice or precision.
The technique of lacing the main thread under the small couching stitches permits vast options of color combinations. You can change up the colors of the anchoring stitches and of the lacing thread. The threads can vary across the design, creating colorful patterns or gradual color changes.
More stitches from the Couching Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Cloud Filling Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Cloud Filling 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 Cloud Filling Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Mark the grid on the area you want to fill with this technique. I used a ruler and friction pen to draw a grid of 1×1 cm.
2. Start with a row of equally spaced vertical anchoring stitches.
3. Position the anchoring stitches of the second row in the middle of the gap between the stitches of the first row, creating a brick positioning.
4. After all the grid is filled with anchoring stitches, thread your needle with a contrasting color thread and start lacing. Take the needle under the first anchoring stitch on the top left and pass it under the first stitch on the second row.
5. Then, move in the zig-zag direction and lace the second stitch on the first row and the second stitch on the second row, moving up and down. When the entire row is laced, push the needle to the back and start lacing the next row.
6. Now move from right to left and lace the stitches from the second and the third row, forming a net of diamond shapes.
7. Use this lacing technique to fill the entire shape with a Cloud Filling 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 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.
