These stitches create a thin line and embroidery shapes can be used to create outlines, flower and tree stems and various other applications. The stem stitch is easy to work in a straight or curved line, making it suitable for so many embroidery designs such as free stem sewing butterfly patterns.
How to Work Stem Stitch
Basic stem stitching is very simple and is done in four points using the stitching method shown in the diagram:
1. Pull your needle through the fabric just above the marked line (point 1) of your pattern.
2. Insert a needle away from point 1 and the needle just below the pattern line (point 2).
3. Return slightly less than halfway between points 1 and 2, just above the line (point 3).
4. Repeat this process, going back to the bottom right of line 4.
Different Ways to Work the Stitch
A straight line can be achieved by doing some sewing work directly above or below the line.
Some stickers find that they can achieve a better line of sewing by doing the same thing as back stitching. If you are struggling with stem stitching, try this method instead. Get up at point 2 and go down to point 1, then come back to point 4 and back to point 3 This is especially helpful when working on a straight line.
Depending on your preference or project requirement, stem stitching can be worked out tight or. To work on a tight bend, or to work a smooth line, take small stitches. For a rustic or exposed look, take longer stitches.
The appearance of this stitch also varies depending on how much each stitch overlaps. For example, by placing the stitch in the middle of a large overlap, each touch will have a touching end. A small overlap covers the middle stitch, leaving gaps between each of the other stitches again. As you look back at your work, you will see it most evident.
To perform stem stitching as a fill, the rows of stem stitch are closer together. Continue sewing enough rows to fill the desired area.
Stem Stitch vs. Outline Stitch
In most cases, the stem stitch is confused with outline stitching, with the two names being used interchangeably. This is understandable because they are almost identical and will work in most cases. The main difference between these two stitches is that the action thread is there when you take each stitch.
When doing stem sewing, the work thread is always at the bottom of the sewing line. For outline sewing, the functional thread is always at the top of the sewing line.
The result of outline stitching is that the individual stitches are angled in the opposite direction to how they do with stem stitching. Because of this, when you work the stitches, you will want to come up to the bottom just below the marked line.
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