Also known as : Interlaced Band, Laced Cretan Stitch
This variety is similar to that of the stepped running stitch (variety 2) and takes a braided effect. It is done over two parallel lines of ’stepped’ back stitches. Such a foundation helps to create braid like effects.
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| Stepped back stitch: Lay the foundation by doing two parallel back stitches. ‘Step’ the second as illustrated.
Note that by stepping the two parallel stitches, A1 falls in the mid point of A2 and B2. Similary, B2 falls in the mid point of A1 and B1. |
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| Fig 1: Take another thread and bring it out through A2. Take it under A2-B2 and then under A1-B1, from the bottom. | Fig 2: Continue the needle from beneath the thread, to take it under B2-C2, as shown. | |
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| Fig 3: Take the needle from beneath the thread and pass it under B1-C1, from the bottom. | Fig 4: Continue this ‘twisted’ pattern to give it a final braided effect. Remember to take the needle always beneath the thread before going under the back stitches. | |
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| Fig 5: The completed pattern would look like this. Note how the herringbones between the backstitches grow out and close in at the two curves. | ||
NOTE:
Make sure that while taking the needle and thread under each back stitch, you do not pluck the fabric underneath. You can use a blunt needle to acheive this.
Make sure to leave the back stitch just a bit loose in order to allow the other thread to pass through it easily.
Tags: back stitch, back stitch family, back stitch variations, embroidery tutorials, hand embroidery tutorials, herring bone stitch, stepped running stitch, stepped running stitch variety
Hey!
Great blog.
You probably already are, but have you thought about joining us all at Stitchin Fingers?….
Thanks for good clear instructions on braided chain stitch btw
Beth L
hey beth, thanks for your visit and comments
sarah is already a member of stitchin fingers, but i guess she isn’t active yet. she will post her own reply once she is back from her pregnancy leave 