How to Embroider: Stem Stitch- Video and Step by Step Tutorial

Stem Stitch

The stem stitch looks like a coiled rope with the stitches wrapping around themselves along a line. This stitch is great for (you guessed it!) stems as well as outlining and lettering. Use this DIY video and step-by-step tutorial to learn how to embroider the stem stitch.

What you'll need to create the stem stitch:

Stem Stitch Video

Stem Stitch Step-by-Step Tutorial

1. The stem stitch creates a thin outline that is great for plant stems and curved lines. It looks similar to a coiled rope. To start, bring the needle up through the fabric at the start of the line.

2. Go back down through the fabric about ¼ an inch away along the line. Do not tug the thread entirely flush with the fabric.

3. Next, bring the needle back up through the about halfway between the two stitches. Then tug the thread flush with the fabric.

4. Now, repeat. Bring the needle back down through the fabric about ¼ and inch away along the line, come up between the two points, and tug the thread flush.

5. To end the line, bring the needle back down into the hole of the last stitch.

Looking for more helpful embroidery tips, supplies, and hands-on workshops?

Workshops

Join Melissa Galbraith of MCreativeJ for a hands-on workshop! Melissa makes hand embroidery easy with a wide variety of embroidery classes. Classes are beginner-friendly to advanced and will walk you through a wide variety of stitches, techniques, and designs.

Find all upcoming workshops at: https://www.mcreativej.com/upcoming-seattle-events

Embroidery Books

Want a great hand embroidery reference? Try one of Melissa's hand embroidery books! Each book is great for beginners and breaks down materials, stitches, techniques, and projects for you.

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