If you want to start learning how to embroider, then this tutorial will teach you the six most basic embroidery stitches. Embroidery is a beautiful art to use and it is surprisingly simple once you get the hang of it.
If you are just starting, then here are some things you will need:
A hoop: this simple thing will make your life so much easier. It stretches the fabric flat so that you can easily handle it and define your stitches. They also come in different sizes and shapes (standard being a circle).
Embroidery needle: You need this specific needle because the eye is wide enough to hold your embroidery thread.
Embroidery thread: This thread consists of six individual strands and is a lot thicker than ordinary thread. You can separate all six strands depending on how thick you want it.
You will need all of the above items for these stitches.
Running Stitch:
Bring your needle through the wrong side of the fabric.
Push it back down through the fabric a small space from where you started (this is a stitch).
Bring it back up through the fabric a small distance from where you started.
Repeat this process for as long as you wish.
Back Stitch:
Bring your needle through the wrong side of the fabric.
Push it back down through the fabric a small space from the last stitch.
Bring it back up through the fabric a small distance from where you started.
Push the needle back down through the end of the first stitch you made.
Bring it back up through the fabric a small distance from the second stitch.
Push the needle back down through the end of the second stitch you made.
Repeat this process for as long as you wish.
Stem Stitch:
Bring your needle through the wrong side of the fabric.
Push it back down through the fabric a small space from where you started. Do not pull the thread tight.
In the centre of your first stitch bring your needle up through the fabric. (you may now pull the stitch tight).
Repeat this process for as long as you wish, making sure you always bring the needle through the middle of the left side.
Note: The next two stitches are used to fill in spaces. So, to practice, draw a square on your fabric and use the stitch to cover the are inside.
Satin Stitch:
Bring your needle through the wrong side of the fabric at the corner of your square/ space.
Push your needle back down at the opposite end.
Bring it back up next to the place where you made your first stitch.
Push your needle back down at the opposite end.
Repeat this process until your space is filled.
Short and Long Stitch:
Bring your needle through the wrong side of the fabric at the corner of your square/ space to fill.
Make a short stitch up your fabric.
Bring it back up next to the place where you made your first stitch and make a stitch either shorter or longer than your first.
Continue this process for your first row.
Bring your needle up above the first stitch you made.
Repeat the same process as you did on the first row.
Repeat all of this until your space is filled.
French Knot:
Bring your needle through the wrong side of the fabric.
Wrap your thread twice around your needle.
Push your needle back through the fabric in the same place you brought it up.
Look out for the next post in beginners embroidery to teach you some more stitches!
For extra help, watch this video: