What is the feather stitch and how do I use it?
The feather stitch is made up of alternating V-shaped stitches that are created in a similar way to the single/detached chain stitch. A series of these stitches can create a fun leafy look. In the Stitching Raccoon Sampler, the feather stitch is used for the leaves of the Queen Anne's Lace.
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Feather stitch diagram
Below is what a typical diagram for the feather stitch may look like in an embroidery pattern or on other how-to pages.
See the feather stitch in action:
Follow along with this quick video to see how each step of the feather stitch comes together.
Step-by-step instructions
Now, let's walk through each step in the feather stitch together.
Step 1: It can be helpful to practice this stitch using evenly spaced horizontal lines (as shown). To begin, bring your needle up at your starting point.
Step 2: Now, insert the needle down about a stitch length away (skipping one line). Do not pull your thread all the way through yet.
Step 3: Bring your needle back up about a stitch length below the center point of the first two stitches, catching the floss to create a 'V' shape.
Step 4: Start the next stitch by going over about a stitch length (skipping one line) to the right of where you just came up. Repeat the process of coming up a stitch length below the center point of your two stitches and creating the V shape.
Step 5: Continue making stitches to the left and then to the right in this way.
Step 6: When you're finished, make a small stitch over the last loop.
Save it for later
Want to remember how to do the feather stitch? Pin the image below to Pinterest as a quick reference for later!
Give it a try, you can do it!
Now it's your turn to grab a needle, some embroidery floss, and give it a go! Practice the feather stitch, along with other basic embroidery stitches, in the Stitching Raccoon Sampler. Get the embroidery pattern for FREE by signing up below!
