Embroidery stitch library

A growing library of embroidery stitches, from simple outlines to decorative details. Browse stitches by type and level, then click through to see how each stitch is worked step-by-step.

Running stitch embroidery example.

Running stitch

Simple dashed stitches, great for quick outlines and texture.

  • Outline
  • Beginner
Back stitch embroidery example.

Back stitch

A neat, solid line stitch for outlines, lettering and details.

  • Outline
  • Beginner
Stem stitch embroidery example.

Stem stitch

A smooth line stitch that follows curves beautifully, ideal for stems and outlines.

  • Outline
  • Beginner
Split stitch embroidery example.

Split stitch

A textured stitch created by splitting the thread, useful for outlines and filled shapes.

  • Outline
  • Filling
  • Beginner
Whipped back stitch embroidery example.

Whipped back stitch

Wrap thread around back stitch to add colour and a raised look.

  • Outline
  • Decorative
Laced back stitch embroidery example.

Laced back stitch

Weave thread through back stitch for a bold, decorative line.

  • Outline
  • Decorative
Seed stitch embroidery example.

Seed stitch

Small scattered stitches that add texture and gentle detail to filled areas.

  • Decorative
  • Filling
  • Beginner
Satin stitch embroidery example.

Satin stitch

Smooth, solid stitches for filling shapes like petals, letters and blocks of colour.

  • Filling
  • Beginner
Long and short stitch embroidery example.

Long and short stitch

A filling stitch used for shading and blending colour smoothly across shapes.

  • Filling
  • Beginner
Chain stitch embroidery example.

Chain stitch

Looped stitches that form a chain, useful for outlines, borders and textured fills.

  • Outline
  • Filling
  • Beginner
Lazy daisy stitch embroidery example.

Lazy daisy

A simple loop stitch that’s perfect for petals, leaves and tiny floral details.

  • Decorative
  • Beginner
Star stitch embroidery example.

Star stitch

A quick decorative stitch for tiny stars, sparkles and scattered detail.

  • Decorative
  • Beginner
Cross stitch embroidery example.

Cross stitch

Two simple diagonal stitches that make a neat cross, great for borders and patterns.

  • Decorative
  • Outline
  • Beginner
Fly stitch embroidery example.

Fly stitch

A light, open stitch often used for leaves, wings and delicate outlines.

  • Decorative
  • Outline
  • Beginner
Feather stitch embroidery example.

Feather stitch

A flowing decorative stitch worked along a central line, ideal for borders, vines and textured detail.

  • Decorative
  • Advanced
Couching embroidery example.

Couching

A technique where threads are laid on the surface and held in place with small stitches.

  • Outline
  • Decorative
  • Advanced
French knot embroidery example.

French knot

A small knotted stitch used for dots, texture and decorative detail.

  • Decorative
  • Advanced

Hope you’ve enjoyed learning embroidery stitches.

While you’re here, why not check out my beginner-friendly embroidery kits and patterns?