How to Do Chain Stitch (Step-by-Step)

Finished chain stitch embroidery showing linked loops forming a bold textured line.
Finished chain stitch creates a bold, loopy line for outlines, borders and lettering.

Chain stitch is a lovely, textured embroidery stitch made from a row of linked loops. It is brilliant for outlines, borders and hand stitched lettering, and it’s surprisingly quick once you get into the rhythm.

Chain stitch step-by-step embroidery diagram showing how to form a loop and bring the needle up through it to create linked stitches.
Chain stitch step-by-step illustration.

How to do chain stitch (step-by-step)

  1. Bring your needle up at point 1.
  2. Insert it back into the same hole, leaving a small loop of thread on the surface.
  3. Bring the needle up again a short distance away (point 3), making sure the loop sits underneath the needle.
  4. Gently pull your thread through to form the loop.
  5. Repeat to form a chain. At the end of your row, secure the final loop with a small straight stitch over the last loop.

Once you have the first loop made, it starts to feel very satisfying because each new stitch links into the one before it. Keep an eye on your tension so the loops sit neatly on the fabric rather than pulling tight.

More about chain stitch

Chain stitch forms a line of connected loops that sits slightly raised on the surface of the fabric. It’s a great choice when you want an outline to look a bit bolder than back stitch, and it works beautifully for borders, swirls and simple decorative lines.

You can stitch chain stitch in straight lines or gentle curves. For tighter curves, simply make your stitches a little shorter so the chain can turn smoothly. It’s also a handy stitch for embroidery lettering because it gives a continuous line with a little extra texture.

Ready to practise chain stitch?

If you would like some projects to try chain stitch on, I have a range of beginner friendly embroidery kits and patterns where you can put it into practice straight away.

Shop embroidery kits Browse patterns Get the free sampler

Tips for chain stitch

  • Before you pull through, check the loop is sitting underneath your needle so the stitch “catches” properly.
  • Try to keep your stitch length consistent so the loops look even.
  • For curves, use shorter stitches to help the chain turn smoothly.
  • If your loops look tight, loosen your tension slightly so the stitch keeps its rounded shape.
  • Finish the row with a tiny straight stitch over the last loop to secure it neatly.

More embroidery stitches to learn

Once you are comfortable with chain stitch, you might like to try these stitches next:

Next steps in your embroidery journey

If you would like a relaxed project to put your new stitches into practice, you can explore my range of modern embroidery kits and patterns below.