Learn how to sew the stem stitch in today's tutorial.

The stem stitch is a popular outline stitch because it is easy follows curves easily. It's also an easy stitch to learn. 

There are a few different names for the stem stitch, including crewel stitch, stalk stitch, and South Kensington stitch.

 

This stem stitch tutorial is part of the heart sampler stitch along.

Come stitch along with us! Each day we are learning basic embroidery stitches while we create this darling Valentine's heart sampler.

Begin by learning how to transfer embroidery patterns. 

Then learn the following line stitches:

• running stitch
• double running stitch(aka the Holbein stitch)
• whipped running stitch
• double whipped running stitch
• laced running stitch
• back stitch
• whipped back stitch
• threaded back stitch
• double threaded backstitch
• laced backstitch
• split stitch
• chain stitch

Next, we'll learn the couching stitch.

 

STEM STITCH (EMBROIDERY HOW TO)

This lovely stitch is ideal for both straight lines, curvy lines and tight curves. It molds well to the shape of the line. The stem stitch is ideal for many embroidery projects.

You can create a thicker line by using all strands of floss.

Thin lines are created by decreasing the number of strands of thread used.

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HOW TO SEW THE STEM STITCH

Learn better visually? Then watch the video tutorial. 

I find that this stitch is easiest for me to sew if I work from left to right. 

 

Bring the thread up at the beginning point the line. Bring the needle down a stitch length away, and back up at the halfway point. Pull the thread through.
 

Bring the needle down a stitch length away and back up at the point at the end of the previous stitch. 
 

Continue this process until you get to the end of the line. 

When finished, tie off on the back of your work.

Stem Stitch VS Outline Stitch

The stem stitch and the outline stitch are essentially worked the same. The main difference is which side of the stitch your working thread is coming out. 

With stem stitches the thread is kept on the upper side of the stitches.  (In the picture above, the thread tail is coming out above the stitches.)

With outline stitches the thread is worked on the bottom side of the stitches. 

Want to watch the video?  ↓↓Click the link ↓↓

→Stem Stitch Video←

 MORE HAND EMBROIDERY STITCHES

Coming soon:

• Satin stitch
• lazy daisy stitch
• french knot

Don't forget to pin it!!