Bring your thread to the front, then take the needle to the back about 1/8 inch away.
Pull the thread through, then bring your needle up in the center of the first stitch, splitting the thread with the needle. This will work best if you use an even number of strands of embroidery floss. I used 4 but you could use 2 for a fine line or 6 for a heavier one. Pull the thread through to complete the first stitch and begin the second.
Again, take the needle to the back 1/8 inch away.
Pull the thread through and emerge in the center of the second stitch. Continue working your stitches in the same manner. Hide the thread at the back when you're finished with the line.
This is the first time I've done this stitch and I found it very awkward. My line looked better as I went along, but I still think it looks too much like chain stitch. And I don't think it's supposed to. So I think I need to practice this one a bit more. I'll revise these directions and pictures if I come up with an easier way to do it.
Last week I showed you how to do satin stitch with a drawn line. Another way to do it, and one that maintains a sharper line, is to outline your shape first with split stitch. Then work over the top of it, taking your thread over the outline so you're covering it completely, and angling your needle slightly towards the center. Like this—
I usually show examples from vintage linens that I own but I couldn't find any that used this stitch. Split stitch is not something you see that often and I'm not sure why. Maybe because it's underneath all the satin stitch :)
I think we'll do one more basic stitch before we get into the more complicated ones, so next week will be Back Stitch. See you then!
And if you've missed any of the lessons in this series, there's a handy list of previous Stitch School posts in the menu to the right.
11 comments:
I am enjoying your stitch tutorials. I have sent some friends over to have a look..for some help in learning.
I look forward to your stitching tutorials each week. Thank you!
Your stitch tutorials are really great!
I know that a lot of crewelwork involves split stitch - and it is something that I find hard to get looking even. You have done a super job. : )
When I am next stuck on an embroidery project I am coming first to your site rather than opening a book. I think your tutorials are better than anything else I have found.
This is a great series! I love your super clear close-up pictures.
I simply adore these tutorials =), As a bored student out of school, this is the perfect past time... relaxing and fun!
I think it is great because I need all this information for my Textiles homework every Tuesday and it is so clear and easy to read these instructions.
ur stitch tutorial is too cool.
One thing I discovered today with split stitch is that it really helps to keep your stitches short, very short if possible. It looks better and is much easier. I read this in a book, and did find the difference, in working the stitch and its results, substantial!
Hope this helps anyone else looking...
Just commenting to say thank you. I am using your tutorials to teach my 7yo to embroider. Your instructions are so clear. We're having a wonderful time.
i am so glad that you have done this! I learned to embroider from my mom years ago, but got away from it for a while and just needed a refresher...this did the job! Superb picture illustrations too!
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