Sword Stitch
Sword Stitch is a simple decorative surface stitch from the family of knots. Two interlocking stitches create a cross shape with four legs, where one leg is longer than the others. This way, the shape looks like a sword.
To make this stitch, you will make a diagonal stitch, then lace one more stitch over the previously made one.
On the reverse side, you will see the jumping threads between the stitches.
Other names of the Sword Stitch
Sword-edging stitch is an alternative name for this technique. It comes from the fact that this stitch is often made in lines, creating borders and decorative edges.
Applications of the Sword Stitch
Sword Stitch is an isolated stitch and can be positioned to your liking. The most common uses of this technique are powdered filling and decorative bands for edges and borders.
More stitches from the family of Knots
Learn how to embroider Sword Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Sword 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 Sword Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Start with one straight stitch. Position it diagonally to the desired position of the finished Sword Stitch.
2. Take the needle back to the surface at the same height as the bottom side of the stitch.
3. Pass the needle under the first diagonal stitch. Move in the top-down direction.
4. Push the needle through the fabric under the formed stitch. Make this leg of the stitch longer.
5. Pull the thread through. Your Sword Stitch is done. You can make more stitches for filling or embroider them in a line for a border.
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 basic embroidery stitches to complex and playful variations of classical techniques, a whole world of stitches is waiting for you to explore and master. So, grab your hoop and needle, and let’s stitch together!
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Need More Guidance?
The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.
