Portuguese Stem Stitch
Portuguese Stem Stitch is a bold, decorative variation of the Stem Stitch. Even though the stitch is sometimes called “knotted”, the embroidery technique combines a classical Stem Stitch with whipping, resulting in a textured, raised look that resembles knots.
The stitch is quick to work and swiftly creates a bold, textural line by alternating stem stitch with wrapping stitches. Two wrapped threads do not pierce the fabric, but wrap each stem stitch.
Other names of the Portuguese Stem Stitch
Alternative names of this hand embroidery technique are Portuguese Knotted Stem, Portuguese Knot, Wrapped Stem Stitch, and Portuguese Knotted Stem Stitch.
Applications of the Portuguese Stem Stitch
Portuguese Stem Stitch is a decorative, textural linear stitch that you can use to stitch decorative borders and outlines. It also works great as part of combined border designs.
You can embroider Portuguese Stem Stitch on straight and curved lines; therefore, you can use the stitch for lettering, embellishing garments and home textiles.
Rows of Portuguese Knotted Stem Stitch worked close together will create a dense, textural filling.
More stitches from the Stem Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Portuguese Stem Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Portuguese Knotted Stem 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 Portuguese Stem Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. To make the Portuguese Stem Stitch, we will work from the bottom of the design line upwards. Start with a straight stitch up.
2. Leave the loop of the working thread open, leaning to the right. Push the needle back to the surface in the middle on the first stitch.
3. Pull the thread to create the first Stem Stitch. Then, pass the needle under the first stitch from right to left.
4. Pass the needle under the stitch one more time. This will create a double wrap on the stitch. Keep the thread in tension with your left hand, so the wraps stay firm and tight.
5. Make one more stitch forward to create the second Stem Stitch. Leave the loop open, leaning to the right.
6. Get back to the surface in the middle and tighten the Second Stem Stitch.
7. Add the first wrap on the second stitch.
8. Then, add the second wrap.
9. From here, repeat the sequence to embroider the entire row of Portuguese Stem 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. Decorative stitches, techniques for filling and outlines, borders or mending – all in one place!
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Need More Guidance?
The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.
