Weave stitch

Weave stitch is something in between embroidery and weaving. First, stitches are made in horizontal or vertical, parallel lines. Then, the other stitches are made vertically or horizontally, weaving through the horizontal/vertical stitches at a straight angle.

Other names of the stitch

Weave stitch is also called Weaving stitch, woven filling stitch, or even Queen Anne stitch.

Hand embroidered Christmas tree - Weave stitch and Whipped Backstitch embroidery — Hand embroidered Christmas tree – Weave stitch and Whipped Backstitch embroidery

Applications of the Weaving stitch

Weave stitch is a great filling stitch that you can use to fill the background of the design.
It is excellent for darning. If woven tightly, it can totally cover the hole or a stan. It is widely used in visible mending projects on woven fabrics and knitwear.
Use it to embroider woven objects like hats, baskets, or furniture.

Embroidery tips

I find it easier to embroider vertical stitches (warp) first and then weave horizontally (weft). But you can try the other way.
You can create very decorative designs by mixing the colors of the horizontal and vertical stitches. Also, you can change the weaving style and make twill, basket, or satin weaves instead of plain weaving.
One more variation you can add to your weave stitches – is density. Your weave stitches can be dense to cover the fabric totally or very loose, where the background material shows. Also, you can make warp or weft of the different densities.
When you weave, be careful to avoid snagging vertical stitches or fabric. Use a blunt needle, like a tapestry needle (or the back of the needle).

More stitches from the Weave Stitch family

Learn how to embroider Weave Stitch

Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Weave 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 Weave Stitch

Horizontal stitches
To make a Weave stitch, first embroider long horizontal stitches, keeping them parallel and equally spaced.
Weave
Now, weave in the vertical stitches. Keep them parallel and equally distanced. When weaving, use a blunt needle or the back of the needle to prevent snagging vertical threads. Protect your fingers with a thimble.

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.

Embroidery fabric cotton linen neutral colors Etsy — Embroidery fabric

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!