7 days of stitches: running stitch

how to embroider the running stitch

Let’s start with the first of basic stitches for this week! The RUNNING STITCH probably is the most simple and basic embroidery stitch. Yet you can achieve the most intriguing patterns or minimalistic line stitchings.

Here is how it works

How to embroider the running stitch

// For the running stitch, you go over and under the fabric in one line.

Embroidery techniques using running stitches as their basic stitch are Sashiko and pattern darning.

Sashiko is a technique from Japan traditionally using indigo blue and white for thread and fabric. Geometric patterns are embroidered with running stitch following some basic rules for edging and center. Sashiko is often reversible.

Pattern darning is a technique used all over the world. The pattern is created with running stitches over the whole length of the pattern row for row. You can see an example in the top image in this post (the arrow shaped lines). It resembles two colored woven fabric or in some cases satin stitch. Pattern darning can be done reversible.


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