To create a chain link stitch, you form interconnected loops on the fabric surface, resembling a chain. The core technique involves bringing the thread up through the fabric, forming a loop, and then bringing the needle back up through the center of that loop to secure it and start the next link.
This embroidery stitch is versatile and commonly used for outlining, filling shapes, or decorative borders.
Steps to Chain Link Stitch
Creating a chain stitch is relatively straightforward once you understand the motion. Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Start: Bring your needle and thread up through the fabric from the back. This is your starting point.
- Form the First Loop: Reinsert the needle back into the fabric very close to where you just came up (often in the same hole or just beside it). Crucially, do not pull the thread tight yet. Instead, bring the thread around to form a loop.
- Create the First Link: With the thread forming a loop on the surface, bring the needle back up through the fabric approximately one stitch length away from your starting point. Ensure that the needle comes up through the center of the loop you just created.
- Pull Through: Gently pull the needle and thread through the loop. This action secures the first link of your chain. Don't pull too tightly, as you want the loop to lay flat and form a defined chain link.
- Repeat for Subsequent Links: To create the next link, keep the thread looped on the surface as you did before. Reinsert the needle back into the fabric through the same hole where your thread just came up (the end of the previous link). Bring the needle up one stitch length forward, making sure it comes up through the center of the loop you are forming with the working thread.
- End the Chain: When you've reached the desired length, bring the needle through the center of the last loop you formed, but this time, insert the needle back into the fabric just outside the loop (on the opposite side from where the thread emerged) to secure the final stitch and prevent the last loop from unraveling.
Key Point from the Reference:
As highlighted in the reference: "And leave a loop. Come one stitch length forward and make sure that that comes up through. The center of that loop." This describes the essential step of bringing the needle up through the center of the previously formed loop to continue the chain, ensuring each link is properly connected.
Why Use Chain Stitch?
- Bold Lines: Creates a textured, raised line that stands out.
- Filling: Can be worked in rows close together to fill shapes effectively.
- Speed: Can be relatively quick to work compared to other stitches for outlining.
Mastering the chain stitch involves practicing maintaining consistent loop size and stitch length for an even, attractive chain.
