Hungarian braided chain stitch

Hungarian braided chain stitch is a decorative variation of the Chain stitch. It has a fascinating texture and is rather bold. This textured embroidery stitch can be stitched on straight and curved lines as it takes the curves very well.

Other names of the stitch

This braided hand embroidery stitch is known by several names. Some embroiderers call it the Braided chain stitch, while others call it the Hungarian chain stitch or Braided chain stitch embroidery. Regardless of the name, its unique braided texture remains its signature characteristic.

Hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery

Hungarian Braided Stitch Applications

This decorative hand embroidery stitch is remarkably versatile. It’s perfect for borders, decorative seams, or adding a textured, dimensional look to your designs. Its robust structure is ideal for linen, cotton, or canvas materials.

Due to its bold look and textured surface, braided chain stitch is often used in botanical embroideries to depict tree trunks or twisted vines. In Jacobean embroidery, this stitch is used to outline the shapes. Besides that, a Hungarian braided chain will look great as a stitch for lettering.

More stitches from the Chain stitch family

Learn how to embroider Hungarian Braided Chain Stitch

Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Hungarian Braided Chain 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.

hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery with red and teal green floss1x1

How to embroider Hungarian Braided Chain Stitch

Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial

Instructions

1. Start with a small Straight stitch, as if you were starting a Reverse chain stitch.

Hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery step 1

2. Make one Reverse chain stitch. Take the needle up one stitch on the right. Pass the thread under the straight stitch and take the needle down in the same spot.

hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery step 2

3. Make one more Reverse chain stitch, but use the same Straight stitch to lock it. Take a needle down at the same spot, but do not tighten the loop – leave it open.

hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery step 3

4. Take the needle up one stitch away. Pass the needle under the last finished chain stitch, leaving the working thread of the open loop under the needle.

Hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery step 4

5. While the needle is still under the chain stitch, tighten the loop of the working thread.

hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery step 5

6. Then, take the needle down at the same point and leave the loop of the working thread open. Again, pass the needle under the last finished chain stitch.

Hungarian braided chain stitch embroidery step 6

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!