The artwork and designs are everywhere. Embroidery designs are different patterns of artwork that we make through stitches. These designs are contributing a lot to the world of clothing and apparel. The only purpose of these designs and patterns is to make our outfit beautiful and appealing. The tradition of making embroidery stitches by hand is old. The modern machine and software has turned the tables and took the embroidery digitizing services by storm. 

In this article, we will talk about the embroidery stitch basics and their types.

Before we delve into the topic, you also need to know what is stitch density in embroidery. In the simplest of terms, stitch density is the path between the stitch lines travelling in the same direction.  Another question that may pop up in your mind is what is stitch density in embroidery. You also need to know what is stitch density in embroidery. It is basically the path or distance between the stitch lines travelling in the same direction.  

 What are the Basic Stitches in Embroidery?

In the context of embroidery digitizing, a stitch is simply the movement of the embroidery needle back and forth to the fabric with the help of a thread. The thread stroke made on the front side is called a ‘stitch’.

Just like the smallest unit of a computer is a bit. For embroidery, a stitch is the smallest unit. We make patterns from multiple stitches which creates a design. It is the stitch that makes the embroidery logo or design. 

Now, we will talk about the five most basic embroidery stitches types.

How to Start Cross Stitch

In a cross-stitch, we have to poke holes in the fabric to run the stitches. It looks smooth when in motion. The cross stitch is one of the most basic stitches in embroidery. Have you seen your grandma or aunt making stitches by hand? If yes, then those are called the running stitches. 

The embroidery stitches in the machine can make stitches at a fast pace - hundreds of stitches at a time. To get the finest results, it is good to make cross stitches by hand.

When making a stitch, keep the tension even to avoid thread pulling. It will pucker the stitch. The cross stitch is used to make outlines, be it straight or curved. 

The Back Stitch

As the name suggests, in a backstitch, the stitch is made in backwards or reverse direction to the general direction of sewing. Backstitch is best to make applique letters on the fabric. It is strong and long-lasting. Unlike running stitches, you can make these stitches through both hands and a machine. 

The usage of this stitch is the same as the running stitch. It is used to make curved and straight outlines. When making a backstitch, it is wise to make short stitches for curvy shapes. 

The Split Stitch 

In a split stitch, we take the thread backward under the bottom of the cloth, but rather than taking the thread to the top, we split the needle and pulled the thread to the needle portion. We create a hoop-like motion and the final product has a braided texture. 

A split stitch is used to make straight lines, curved lines and for outlining. It is also one of the most basic stitches in embroidery.  When making a split stitch, it is recommended to make shorter stitches for curved shapes. You can use this stitch to make an outline after the satin stitch. It will give a raising effect on the texture. 

The Stem Stitch

In a stem stitch, we have to pull the needle thread up and down. When making a stem stitch, you need expert hands to avoid mishandling. This stitch is also known as crewel stitch. It is perfect to create designs for flowers or a plant stem. 

The embroidery stitches in the machine can do the work quicker than hand embroidery. This stitch can also be used to make outlines as it is a great alternative to the backstitch. 

The stem stitch is mainly used for the stems for plants, outlining, and for straight and curved lines. Make short-length stitches for curvy lines to avoid roughness. 

The Chain Stitch 

As the name implies, in a chain stitch, a series of looped stitches are formed to create a chain-like structure. This stitch demands preciseness and delicacy for a fine outcome. If you want to make chain embroidery stitches by hand, it requires a lot of time and care. On the other hand, the same stitch can be made by the embroidery machine that has a short turnaround time. Chain stitch also comes in the list of basic embroidery stitches types. 

Tips And Usage

The chain stitch is used to hem jeans, make curved and straight lines and outlining. When making a chain stitch, make sure that you keep the tension in the thread even to avoid blurriness. 

These are some of the basic stitches that come in both categories ‘hand embroidery stitches’ and ‘embroidery stitches in the machine’. 

The last thing you need to know is how much per stitch per embroidery do you really need. Well, the cost can vary depending on the service you choose. Usually the cost per thousand stitches can vary somewhere between 50 cents to 4 dollars.

Want Help - Get In Touch 

Here, at Mig Digitizing, we have a team of experienced digitizers who knows the ins and outs of embroidery digitizing service. We live and breathe in stitches. You can get quality services at affordable rates on our website.