Embroidery Stitch Glossary

Welcome to our stitch glossary! Here you'll find the common embroidery stitches used in our Chinese embroidery DIY kits. Each stitch is listed under its most common English name, along with its Chinese name, a description, and a visual guide. Happy stitching!

01.Backstitch:A fundamental stitch for creating solid, continuous lines, often used for outlines and lettering.

02.Outline Stitch:Similar to stem stitch, used for smooth, rounded outlines of shapes and designs.

03.Split Stitch:Creates a textured line by "splitting" the previous stitch with the needle. Common in decorative outlines.

04.French Knot:A classic technique where thread is wrapped around the needle to form small, raised knots. Perfect for details like eyes or flower centers.

05.Lazy Daisy Stitch:A looped stitch that forms petal or daisy-like shapes. Ideal for floral patterns.

06.Chain Stitch:A series of looped stitches forming a chain-like pattern. Used for outlines and decorative lines.

07.Beaded Stitch:A general term for adding beads to embroidery for texture and shine.

08.Satin Stitch:Uses smooth, flat stitches to fill areas with a solid, glossy finish. Great for petals and leaves.

09.Long and Short Stitch:A shading technique blending stitches of varying lengths to create gradient effects.

10.Couching Stitch:A method where decorative threads (e.g., gold wire) are laid on the surface and stitched down at intervals.

11.Leaf Stitch:A stitch shaped like a leaf, often used for foliage in botanical designs.

12.Fly Stitch:A V-shaped stitch resembling a bird in flight. Used for leaves, feathers, or decorative accents.

13.Feather Stitch:A decorative, branching stitch that mimics feathers or foliage. Popular in folk embroidery.

14.Bullion Knot:Involves wrapping thread multiple times around the needle to create a coiled, 3D knot.

15.Laid Work:Long threads are "laid" across the fabric and secured with tiny stitches. Creates smooth, large filled areas.

16.Ring Stitch:Forms small, circular shapes for details like rings or tiny flowers.

17.Switching from Outline to Satin Stitch (and back)