Whipped Stem Stitch
Whipped Stem Stitch is a decorative variation of the classical Stem Stitch. Additional passage – Whipping the stitch results in a more raised, smooth, rope-like line.
The stitch can be embroidered with one thread color for a smooth, raised line or with two contrasting colors to create a decorative rope. The color you will use for the Stem Stitch will be slightly more visible than the color of the whipping thread. In my sampler, on the straight line, I used green thread for Stem Stitch and yellow – for whipping.
On the reverse side of the fabric, only the backstitch of the Stem Stitch will be visible, as whipping thread does not pierce the fabric and stays on the front side.
Applications of the Whipped Stem Stitch
This decorative hand embroidery technique is particularly effective in outlining, borders, or lettering. Besides that, you can use this stitch in botanical embroidery, modern surface stitching, or crazy quilting.
More stitches from the Stem Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Whipped Stem Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Whipped 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 Whipped Stem Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Embroider the line of Stem Stitch. Move from left to right and keep the loop of the working thread below the stitching line.
2. When the entire line is stitched, add whipping. Take the needle with a contrasting color thread to the surface on the right end of the line and pass the needle under the first Stem Stitch upwards. Use the back of the needle to avoid snagging the stitches or piercing the fabric.
3. Repeat whipping. Pass the needle under the second Stem Stitch upwards.
4. To create a smooth line of the Whipped Stem Stitch, pass the needle under each Stem Stitch in the line.
5. Finally, push the needle to the back at the starting point and secure the whipping thread on the back.
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. 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.
