How to Do Feather Stitch (Step-by-Step)
Feather stitch is a pretty decorative embroidery stitch made of looped stitches that alternate to the left and right of a central line. It is great for creating organic shapes like vines, leafy branches and flowing borders in your designs.
How to do feather stitch (step-by-step)
- Bring your needle up at the top of the line you want to stitch (1).
- Insert the needle down to the right of the central line and bring it up again on the line, catching the thread under the needle to form a loop (2).
- Pull the thread gently so the loop sits neatly on the fabric (3).
- Next, insert the needle down to the left of the central line and bring it up again on the line, again catching the thread under the needle to form a loop (4).
- Continue alternating sides in this way, keeping the loops even and the spacing consistent for a balanced look (5).
More about feather stitch
Feather stitch makes a flowing, open line with a series of connected loops. Because the loops alternate sides, it has a natural, organic look that works beautifully on curves and wavy outlines. It can also be adapted for borders, trailing vines and relaxed fills in decorative embroidery.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
You can adjust the look by changing how far apart you space the loops or how long you make each diagonal stitch. For a looser, airier effect, space the loops further apart. For a denser, textured line, bring the loops closer together. Feather stitch also pairs well with small French knots or lazy daisy stitches to add extra detail.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Want to use feather stitch in a project?
If you would like to put your feather stitch into practice, you can explore my range of beginner friendly embroidery kits and patterns. Many designs use decorative stitches like this for organic shapes and borders.
Feather stitch is forgiving and fun once you get into the rhythm, and its flowing shape makes it great for adding expressive, decorative lines to your projects.
Tips for feather stitch
- Keep your central guideline visible so the loops stay aligned on either side.
- Try spacing loops closer together for a fuller look, or further apart for a lighter feel.
- Use this stitch along gentle curves to create a vine-like effect.
- Experiment with variegated thread to make the stitch look even more textured.
- An embroidery hoop can help the loops sit neatly without pulling the fabric.
