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Twisted Fly Stitch embroidery

Twisted Fly Stitch

The Twisted Fly Stitch, a decorative variation of the Fly Stitch, has a rich history in the world of embroidery. It can be positioned connected to form rows or used as detached stitches, offering a versatile range of applications in various embroidery styles.

Twisted Fly Stitch embroidery with orange pearl cotton
Twisted Fly Stitch embroidery with pearl cotton

Applications of the Twisted Fly Stitch

This versatile decorative stitch is widely used in modern hand embroidery as a detached stitch, allowing you to explore various design possibilities. In traditional Saudi Arabian and Yemeni embroidery, the Twisted Fly Stitch is used for decorative borders, showcasing its adaptability. This variation of the Fly stitch is also popular in Crazy Quilting, demonstrating its wide range of applications.

More stitches from the Fly Stitch family

Learn how to embroider Twisted Fly Stitch

Embroidering the Twisted Fly stitch is easier than you might think. Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will quickly master this stitch. 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 even faster.

Twisted Fly Stitch small image

How to embroider Twisted Fly Stitch

Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial

Instructions

1. Take the needle with a thread to the surface of the fabric and pull all the thread up. Make a straight stitch. Do not pull the thread, but leave a loop open.

Twisted Fly Stitch step1

2. Bring the needle up inside the loop between the ends of the stitch.

Twisted Fly Stitch step2

3. Twist the loop with your fingers.

Twisted Fly Stitch step3

4. Pull the thread to tighten the loop. Make a short stitch to anchor the loop.

Twisted Fly Stitch step4

5. You can choose to make a V-shape or a Y-shape.

Twisted Fly Stitch step5

Remember, practice makes perfect. You can make the Twisted Fly Stitch stitches detached or connected, depending on your design preference. So, get your needle and thread ready, and start practicing!

Video tutorial

Twisted Fly Stitch: A Complete Hand Embroidery Guide

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
DMC Pearl Cotton #8 thread on Etsy
DMC Pearl Cotton #8
Beechwood embroidery hoops Etsy
Embroidery hoop
Bohin Embroidery Needles Etsy
Bohin Embroidery Needles
Embroidery Scissors Etsy
Embroidery Scissors

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!

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Need More Guidance?

The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.

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