Stepped running stitch

Stepped running stitch is a decorative variation of the Running stitch. It combines the foundation stitch (running stitch) and threading.

This simple yet very decorative hand embroidery stitch is excellent for borders, bold outlines, or lettering.

How to embroider Stepped running stitch

• First, embroider the line in a simple running stitch.
• Then, embroider one more parallel line of running stitch. The running stitches must be placed in this order – a stitch in one line – a gap in the second line.
• Now, make threading. Work from right to left. Come up with a needle under the first stitch of the second row. Pass the needle under the first stitch of the first row from down upwards.
• Pass the needle under the second stitch of the first row from the top downwards. Then – under the first stitch of the second row from the top downwards.
• Come under the second stitch of the second row from down upwards. Then, under the second stitch of the first row from down upward.
• Continue threading the stitches this way until all the stitches are threaded.

Embroidery tips

• You can embroider the stepped running stitch in a single color – create a single-color design or choose two contrasting colors to create exciting patterns.
• The distance between two parallel lines of the running stitches and the stitches’ size will define how dense the stitch will be.
• Play with colors and see what beautiful color combinations you can create with this simple stitch!
• Use a blunt needle, like a tapestry needle (or the back of the needle), for threading. Be careful not to snag the running stitches or the fabric under and not to hurt your fingers if you use the eye of a regular embroidery needle.

More stitches from the Running stitch family

• Looped running stitch
• Holbein stitch
• Meandering stitch

Video tutorial

If you are a visual learner – watch this video tutorial below or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel.

What’s next?

Looking for some other stitch? Head to this blog’s Stitches and Techniques page and choose the stitch you want to learn!

N.B. Some links may take you to the Easy To Make Designs blog. This is my older hand embroidery blog. While I’m dedicating all of my energy to the Practical Embroidery blog, the previous version still has a lot of great content!