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 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 stitch with ease. If you are a visual learner, watch a video lesson in the tutorial or Practical Embroidery YouTube channel to learn this hand embroidery stitch faster.
How to embroider Hungarian braided chain stitch
Step-by-step tutorial
Materials
- Piece of fabric. Opt for linen or cotton blends.
- Embroidery floss. I used six strands of variegated embroidery floss by DMC.
Tools
- Hoop
- Embroidery needle
- Scissors or snips
Instructions
- Start with a small Straight stitch, as if you were starting a Reverse chain stitch.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- While the needle is still under the chain stitch, tighten the loop of the working thread.
- 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.
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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.
