Stitch Leaf: Closed Fly Stitch

Stitch leaves using the Closed Fly Stitch.

The Closed Fly Stitch is an enjoyable filling stitch. This stitch forms a spine in the center, making it ideal to work on leaves. You will find a variety of leaves in the tropics to draw inspiration from. I chose this palm-shaped leaf to fill it in using a variegated thread. I have left gaps between each of the stitches instead of packing them up. Join me in this uber simple leaf project.

How to embroider leaves using the Closed Fly Stitch

Fig 1: Get your fabric, hoops, and threads ready. I have marked each leaf with a line in the center to help me guide with the stitch.	Fig 2: I start filling in with the Closed Fly Stitch. The first stitch is narrow and the stitch opens up as you progress down the leaf. I have spaced the stitches a bit.
Fig 3: I then do the stem in Whipped Chain Stitch. I also felt outlining the leaves in the same stitch would be great. (Else, it was looking more like a palm tree!).	Fig 4: My simple tropical leaf is done!

Tips to make your embroidered leaf beautiful

1. Start with a really narrow Closed Fly Stitch, that is, a narrow ‘V’. As you progress it will open up, but try to keep the shape by distancing the stitch every time.
2. Outline the leaves with a straight line stitch, like the Back Stitch, Outline Stitch, or the Chain Stitch to give it a finishing.

Related Projects