Stitch this Fabulous Sampler
If you want to stitch this wonderful sampler and learn over 30 Hand Embroidery stitches then head over to this page for all the information.
Raised Chain Band
This is a really nice raised stitch which can be used for borders and looks really great if contrasting threads are used.
The stitch comprises of a foundation row of straight stitches with chain stitch loops worked over these. It can be done singly for a border effect or if you do a wide row of straight stitches with multiple rows of chain stitch loops it can be used as a really unique filler stitch.
I decided to work a row of straight stitches all the same width and then experiment with different threads and number of rows of chain stitch loops so you can get a feel for the stitch and understand how it could be used in your designs…
You don’t need to use the exact same types of thread that I have done – just use what you have or if you only have 1 type just play around with different thicknesses by changing the number of strands or doubling the thread on the needle.
If you have purchased the Pre Printed Fabric Panel or have tranferred the Template to your fabric – scroll down to the ‘Start Stitching’ section to get started straight away.
Where to stitch on your sampler…
Draw a vertical line about 1cm away from the whipped herrinbone just like I have done here…
You are going to stitch between these 2 lines.
Start Stitching…
To stitch the foundation row of horizontal stitches, I used 3 strands of DMC. You need to make the lines fairly close together and evenly spaced. If you find it easier – mark even spaces down the line for your stitches.
The next stage is to work the chain loops over the top of the lines. They are worked from the top to the bottom.
I started with a perle thread size 8 (single stranded thread equivalent to about 4 strands of DMC).
Bring the thread up centrally above the top line.
Swap to a tapestry needle as all the stitches are now worked on the top of the ground fabric. This stops you accidentally splitting the thread lines.
Step 1: Take the thread over the top of the first horizontal stitch and then under the stitch and come out on the left.
This gives a small vertical loop…
Step 2: Take the needle to the right side of the small vertical loop and go under the horizontal stitch…
…you then just pull the thread through over the top of the loop of thread formed. (Step 3)
Continue repeating steps 1-3 on each of the horizontal lines to create a raised chain band.
Carry on for as long as you want the band to be.
To finish you take the thread through to the back of the ground fabric on the last vertical stitch.
If you want to try out a few variations, here’s what I did…
Your stitch sampler should be really starting to fill up now, but there’s still room for plenty more!
Happy Stitching!
