Chain Stitch (Embroidery)

Beginner Embroidery

A looped embroidery stitch that links each stitch into the next, forming a chain-like line used for outlines and decorative lettering.

Bring the needle up through the fabric at your starting point.
Insert the needle back down at almost the same spot where the thread emerged, but don't pull it through yet.
Bring the needle tip back up a short distance ahead, catching the working thread under the tip as you pull through — this loop forms the first chain link.
Insert the needle back down just inside the loop you just made, and bring the tip up another short distance ahead, again catching the thread under the tip.
Continue along your line, always starting each new stitch from just inside the last loop.
To finish, make one small stitch over the last loop to tack it down.

Each loop of the chain locks the one before it in place, which is why the line holds its shape even before the whole design is finished.
Keeping consistent tension on the loop, not too tight and not too loose, is what keeps the chain links looking even and rounded rather than squashed or baggy.
A single chain stitch worked alone and tacked down, rather than continued into a line, is called a "lazy daisy" stitch, commonly used for flower petals.