Fan Stitch
Fan Stitch is a decorative surface stitch from the Straight Stitch family. Five or seven straight stitches of different lengths are positioned to fill a quarter of the circle and form a fan-like pattern. Sometimes, an additional stitch is added to create a stem or a handle for the Fan.
Traditionally, this embroidery stitch should be embroidered as a counted stitch. But you can adapt it to modern embroidery and embroider it on non-counted fabrics, such as linen, cotton, or silk. In this case, you must mark the grid for the stitches.
Other names of the Fan Stitch
This surface embroidery technique is also called Ray Stitch, Fancy Fan, or Straight Fan. If grouped in a certain way, the stitches form a Fan Pattern.
Applications of the Fan Stitch
Ray Stitch, also known as the Fan Stitch, is a versatile surface embroidery technique that can be adapted to various styles. Originating from Canvas work, it was traditionally used for filling or shading. In modern surface embroidery, you can unleash your creativity by using the Fan stitch for botanical embroidery—to depict leaves, petals, or grass. This stitch also adds a touch of elegance as a decorative border, especially when combined with other stitches.
More stitches from the Straight Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Fan Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Fan Stitch quickly. If you are a visual learner, watch a video lesson in the tutorial or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel to learn how to stitch this hand embroidery faster.
How to embroider Fan Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
Instructions
1. Mark the fabric with a grid for the stitches.
2. Make the first Straight Stitch.
3. The second Straight Stitch goes down to the same hole as the first.
4. Add five more Straight stitches, taking them down to the same hole as the first and the second stitches.
5. Depending on your design, you can embroider detached Fan Stitches, or position them in a row. Also, you can change the direction of the stitches.
6. For decorative borders, change the angle of the stitches.
7. Also, you can use Fan stitch for filling. Simply position the rows of stitches one above the other.
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.
