Whipped Stem Stitch

The stem stitch is a commonly used stitch, great at creating curves or the stalks of flowers.

First, make a loop by exiting 1/4 inch away from where you entered, but do not pull the loop through.

Reenter through the middle of the loop, making sure that the loop is facing the same way each time.

Pull through.

Exit 1/4 inch away from the last stitch, but do not pull through.

Reenter where the last stitch ended, as shown:

Pull through.

If you are a more experienced embroiderer, try this technique (called the sewing method) to complete the stem stitch faster:

When you are at the end of the hoop, exit and pull through.

Here is the completed stem stitch.

Now, we can begin what I call "surface stitching" - stitching onto the finished stitch, rarely touching the fabric.

Enter on one side of the end of the stem stitch, and slide through the first stitch.

Pull through.

Slide through the second stitch the same way.

Continue looping around the stitches until you've reached the end. Exit next to the last stitch.

-Avamae