Needlepoint is often associated with tidy tent stitches and geometric precision—but some of the most charming canvases come alive when you mix in decorative embroidery stitches. Adding stitches like Lazy Daisy, Chain stitch, and French knots introduces texture, dimension, and a hand-crafted personality that standard needlepoint alone can’t always achieve.
French knots and Lazy Daisy embroidery stitches on needlepoint canvas.
This post looks at one of those traditional embroidery stitches, the Chain stitch.
Chain Stitch: Adding Flow and Movement
The chain stitch creates a linked, rope-like line that’s excellent for outlines, stems, borders, and decorative accents. On needlepoint canvas, it can soften rigid shapes and introduce graceful curves.
The lilac flower on the this Cutting Garden design has yellow chain stitches worked straight onto the canvas.
- It can be worked straight onto the canvas or as surface embroidery (on top of underlying needlepoint stitches).
- The thicker the thread, the thicker and bolder the chain you will create.
- It's great for both curved and straight lines.
Creative applications:
- Add decorative accents and texture
- Offers a 3-D effect to make elements stand out.
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Outline shapes to make them pop from a tent-stitched background.
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Stitch vines or swirling motifs.
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Use metallic or silk threads to turn simple outlines into focal points.
Cutting Garden needlepoint kit with a stand-out Chain stitch.
Because the chain stitch sits slightly raised on the surface, it adds subtle texture that contrasts beautifully with flat stitches.
Have fun finding a spot for a Chain stitch on your next Poppy Monk needlepoint design.
Shop In-Stock needlepoint kits.
