Filling stitches in embroidery provide endless possibilities for creating texture, shading, and visual interest within design elements. From the smooth finish of satin stitch to the woven appearance of basketweave fill, each technique offers distinct aesthetic qualities. Long-and-short stitch allows for gradual color transitions ideal for realistic floral petals or animal fur, while seed stitch creates delicate speckled textures. More intricate filling stitches like trellis work or pulled thread techniques produce lace-like openwork effects. Choosing the right fill stitch depends on the desired look, fabric type, and project purpose – dense fills work well for durable items like jackets, while more open fills suit decorative pieces. Many contemporary embroiderers mix multiple fill stitches within one design to create contrast between different areas, adding depth and complexity to their work.

Design

Check out this list of embroidery stitches that work great for filling areas. From the obvious satin stitch or chain stitch to more unique stitches.

Hexies

So you’ve outlined your embroidery pattern, maybe with a stem or split stitch. Pause for a second to admire your work. But just for a second, because here’s your next task: filling in your design. There are a number of different fill stitches you can use, but these are the five every embroiderer…

Crafts: Embroidery

If you’ve ever browsed through a stitch dictionary, you’ve probably noticed that embroidery stitches are often arranged according to the job they do.

thread embroidery

Lately, I’ve been having a discussion with some beginning embroiderers about filling stitches that work well on surface embroidery projects, especially where you’re filling small elements here and there in a standard stylized or realistic design. I thought I would share the results of that discussion here, in a distilled version, in case you struggle …

Embroidery stitches

Wild mushrooms are filled with enchantment, mystery, and wonder. The ‘Wild Mushrooms’ pattern collection features six charming botanical motifs, perfect for stitching individually or all together. Stitch them on a linen table runner, or on the corners of napkins and pillow cases. Or stitch them all together for the perfect framed piece.The possibilities are endless! Skill level: beginner and beyond PDF Pattern includes: – DMC floss color guide – Tips and Suggestions for how to transfer artwork to fabric – Black and white template, and mirrored black and white template Once you have purchased this pattern you can download and print it instantly! Happy stitching! ©Trellis & Thyme You may sell items made with our patterns in your own Etsy shop. Please give Trellis & Thyme credit in your description. Thank you. Duplication and distribution of Trellis & Thyme patterns is prohibited.

Hand Embroidery Videos

* This item is a digital file NOT a physical item ** You may sell the finished items on a small handmade scale. DO NOT MASS PRODUCE. Please look at the policies for the details. *** Please note, there are no refunds on instant download patterns after downloaded. FINISHED SIZE: 6” Embroider Hoop 7” Embroider Hoop Description This adorable tea cup illustrated embroidery is a beginner friendly pattern. You can enjoy this floral hand embroider project anytime anywhere! Fill your teacup with wonderful floral designs and leaves. Start this colourful and vibrant piece today! Designer’s Review >> PDF file Includes: – 6” Template – 7” Template – DMC Color no. – Anchor Color no. – Embroidery Needle no. – Detail Floss no Illustration – Which Stitch to Use – How many strands to Use – Glossary [How to Stitch] MATERIAL Fat quarter of medium weight linen, Embroidery tracing paper or Transfer paper or Water-Soluble Stabilizer or Heat transfer pen or Hot iron transfers TOOLS 6”, 7\

Crafts

Do you love punch needle? Have you finished your first project and now want to move on to something bigger? Something you can cuddle up next to? Something to change the look of your living room? …