If you are new to hand embroidery, chances are that you might not know where exactly to begin your lessons from. There are more than 300 stitches and you don’t have to learn all of them to make beautiful hand embroidery projects! All you really need to start with is just a dozen stitches- the Basic 12, as I call it. These stitches are those that have been used for centuries and are still as popular, relevant and basic. Most of them form the basis for many traditional embroideries too! In short, these are the must-know top 12 basic hand embroidery stitches.
Once you are comfortable with these stitches and start enjoying them in various projects, learn more from the Picture Dictionary.
So, pick up your tools and just click on these stitches to go to the step-by-step tutorials. Happy stitching!
The BASIC 12 STITCHES
Learn the 12 Basic Embroidery Stitches through our Color Wheel Sampler
Learn the stitches from our Hand Embroidery Book
Learned the basic embroidery stitches with printable patterns, samplers, tips and techniques from our Hand Embroidery for Beginners book.
hi sarah, can i know more about drawn thread embroidery, what stitches used in drawn thread embroidery
Hi Fiara,
I have not done a tutorial on drawn thread embroidery- long pending!
Stitches that use techniques like the Buttonhole Bar, Sheaf Stitch, Woven Bar, Raised Chain Stitch, etc. are used in this form of embroidery. The stitches are called differently when used fro drawn thread embroidery, but you can gather that the techniques are similar.
Whether you’re working on a modern design or a traditional pattern, these stitches provide the perfect starting point. Thank you for sharing this invaluable resource!
Thank you, Nugraa!
Hi Sarah I started teaching hand embroidery in my community they love to see more of your work
Thank you
Wow, Thank you, Vincent. Do share some of your student’s work here. It will be inspiring for everyone!
Super lovely 👌
This is helpful look what I did😁😁😁😁❤
Hi Nissi. Very well done! Thank you for sharing it with us. ☺️ Will you make something out of these patches?
nice one po
Thanks! 😀