How to Do Stem Stitch (Step-by-Step)
Stem stitch is a classic embroidery stitch that creates a smooth, slightly twisted line. It is most often used for stitching stems, vines and outlines, but it also works well anywhere you need a neat line that follows curves easily.
How to do stem stitch (step-by-step)
- Bring your needle up through the fabric at the start of your line (1).
- Take the needle down a short distance along the line to make your first stitch (2).
- Bring the needle back up partway along the stitch you just made, staying on the line (3).
- Keep the working thread consistently on the same side of the line as you stitch.
- Repeat along the line, overlapping each stitch slightly to create a smooth, continuous effect.
More about stem stitch
Stem stitch is especially good for curved lines because the overlapping stitches blend together smoothly. This makes it ideal for floral designs, lettering outlines and any motif where you want the line to feel soft rather than sharply defined.
The direction you keep your thread on (either always above or always below the line) affects the twist of the stitch, so try to be consistent. Stem stitch is often used alongside lazy daisy stitch, fly stitch and satin stitch, particularly in botanical embroidery patterns.
Want to use stem stitch in a project?
If you would like to practise stem stitch, you can explore my range of beginner friendly embroidery kits and patterns. Many floral and nature-inspired designs use stem stitch for outlines and stems.
Once you find a steady rhythm, stem stitch becomes very easy to control, even on tight curves and small details.
Tips for stem stitch
- Keep your stitches a similar length for a smooth, even line.
- Always keep the working thread on the same side of the line.
- Use shorter stitches on tighter curves.
- A hoop can help prevent puckering, especially on longer lines.
- Stem stitch works well with slightly thicker thread for bold outlines.
