Stitch Library

Hand-Sewing Stitches

15 of 15 hand-sewing stitches published so far. From basic seams and hems to decorative embroidery stitches. New stitches are added regularly.

Running Stitch finished swatch

Running Stitch

The most basic hand stitch — an in-and-out line of even stitches used for seams, gathering, and quilting.

Beginner Seam
Backstitch finished swatch

Backstitch

A strong, sturdy hand stitch that doubles back on itself with every stitch, mimicking the strength of a machine seam.

Beginner Seam
Whipstitch (Overcast Stitch) finished swatch

Whipstitch (Overcast Stitch)

A simple diagonal stitch worked over a fabric edge, used to join two edges together or stop raw edges from fraying.

Beginner Finishing
Blanket Stitch finished swatch

Blanket Stitch

A looped edge stitch that wraps around a raw edge, leaving a neat row of connected "L" shapes — a classic finish for blankets and felt appliqué.

Beginner Finishing
Slip Stitch finished swatch

Slip Stitch

A nearly invisible stitch that catches just a thread or two of fabric at a time, used to close hems and openings without visible stitching.

Intermediate Hemming
Ladder Stitch (Invisible Stitch) finished swatch

Ladder Stitch (Invisible Stitch)

A stitch that alternates between two folded edges, leaving a ladder-like pattern of thread that pulls invisibly closed when tightened.

Intermediate Hemming
Hemming Stitch (Catch Stitch) finished swatch

Hemming Stitch (Catch Stitch)

A zigzagging stitch worked left to right with the needle pointing backward, used to secure a hem while allowing a little give.

Beginner Hemming
Cross Stitch finished swatch

Cross Stitch

A decorative embroidery stitch made of two diagonal stitches crossed over each other, traditionally worked on an evenweave or aida fabric grid.

Beginner Embroidery
Chain Stitch (Embroidery) finished swatch

Chain Stitch (Embroidery)

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

Beginner Embroidery
Satin Stitch finished swatch

Satin Stitch

A filling stitch made of closely packed straight stitches laid side by side, used to fill in embroidered shapes with smooth, solid color.

Intermediate Embroidery
French Knot finished swatch

French Knot

A small, raised knot formed by wrapping thread around the needle before pulling it through, used for decorative dots and texture.

Intermediate Embroidery
Buttonhole Stitch finished swatch

Buttonhole Stitch

A dense, looped stitch worked edge to edge with no gaps, used to reinforce buttonholes and other edges that need to withstand repeated stress.

Intermediate Finishing
Basting Stitch finished swatch

Basting Stitch

A long, loose running stitch used to temporarily hold fabric layers in place before final, permanent sewing.

Beginner Seam
Herringbone Stitch (Sewing) finished swatch

Herringbone Stitch (Sewing)

A crossed, X-patterned stitch worked over a hem or seam allowance, giving a decorative finish with some built-in stretch.

Intermediate Finishing
Feather Stitch finished swatch

Feather Stitch

A branching, feathery embroidery stitch made of alternating looped stitches down a central line, used for decorative borders and stems.

Intermediate Embroidery

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