This article is all about embroidering the closed herringbone stitch. Find details on how to stitch, project ideas, tips and tutorials.
What Is the Closed Herringbone Stitch?
The closed herringbone stitch puts a fresh spin on the classic herringbone stitch. While the traditional version gives a loose, criss-cross vibe, this closed variant brings a tighter, woven appearance. Think of it as the perfect stitch for when you want to fill in a space with something more than straight lines but still want a clean, geometric feel. From outlining borders to creating detailed textures, this stitch works wonders when you want a little extra dimension in your designs.
[GIF OF STITCH]
Closed Herringbone Stitch Step-by-Step Instructions
- Grab your fabric marking pen and lightly sketch two parallel lines on your fabric. These will guide your stitching (and save your bacon – this is the ultimate pro-tip!)
- Bring your needle up from the bottom left corner of where you want to begin and pull the thread through to the front of your fabric.
- Take your needle to the top line and make your first diagonal stitch across. ✨ This is the most important stitch as you are determining your angle!
- Now, move your needle back to the left-hand side, top line, one small stitch length back from the top of the diagonal you just created and pull through to the front of your fabric.
- Mirroring the angle of your first diagonal stitch, place your needle on the bottom line forming a diagonal line and your first herringbone. Pull your thread to the back of your fabric.
- Move your needle back to the left-hand side, bottom-line, one stitch length back from the bottom of the diagonal you just created and pull through to the front of your fabric.
- Now, parallel to your first stitch, make a diagonal stitch up to the top line.
- Instead of going one stitch length back from the top, come up the same hole as the ending of your first diagonal line. This will connect your herringbones and create the closed herringbone look we’re going for.
- Parallel to your second stitch, make a diagonal stitch to the bottom line.
- Next, come up the same hole as the ending of your second stitch and create a diagonal parallel to the previous upward-sloping stitch.
- Keep alternating between the two lines, stitching diagonally and crossing over to form a series of overlapping ‘X’s.
- Once you’ve reached the end of your design, tie off the thread on the back of the fabric, and voilà! Pat yourself on the back – you’ve officially mastered the closed herringbone stitch!
Closed Herringbone Stitch Video Tutorial
See it in action with this video tutorial. Get a step-by-step demo here! 🎥
[VIDEO OF STITCH]
More Closed Herringbone Stitch: projects & tips
Ready to discover a stitch that adds serious texture and flair to your projects? 🌿 Say hello to the closed herringbone stitch! This versatile, eye-catching stitch is perfect for borders, bands, and filling in designs. Keep scrolling for project ideas and tips for perfecting this unique stitch.
Use Cases
- Borders & Edges: Ideal for framing your designs with a polished, textured finish.
- Band Patterns: Craft geometric horizontal or vertical bands that add extra visual interest.
- Filling Shapes: When you want more than a flat fill, this stitch brings a woven effect that stands out.
Embroidery Project Ideas Using the Closed Herringbone Stitch
1. Felt Christmas Ornament
- Materials: Felt, embroidery thread, needle, fabric marking pen, scissors, ribbon or twine for hanging.
- Instructions:
- Choose a Shape: Cut out your favorite ornament shape from the felt—think stars, trees, or snowmen!
- Design Your Ornament: Use the fabric marking pen to sketch out fun designs. Consider adding patterns, initials, or simple holiday motifs to personalize it.
- Stitch: Use the Closed Herringbone Stitch to outline your design or fill in sections for that extra texture.
- Add a Hanging Loop: Cut a piece of ribbon or twine and stitch it to the top of your ornament so it’s ready to hang.
- Finish It Up: Want to add some sparkle? Throw in some beads or sequins for that festive flair!
2. Embroidered Headband
- Materials: Plain fabric headband, embroidery thread, needle, fabric marking pen.
- Instructions: Elevate a headband by using the closed herringbone stitch across the main section of the headband. Add extra interest by adding small french knots on the outer edges of your closed herringbone stitch.
Tips and Tricks for Perfecting the Closed Herringbone Stitch
Ready to take your stitching skills to the next level? Here are some tips: ✨
1. Keep Your Stitches Even
Aim for consistency in your stitch lengths. Grab a ruler or fabric marking pen to keep your stitches looking polished and professional.
2. Steady Tension Is Key
Don’t pull the thread too tight – this can lead to unwanted puckering. Keep your tension light and even for smooth, flat stitches that shine. 🌟
3. Think Through Your Contrast
Play around with color combos! Light thread on dark fabric will make your herringbone stitches really pop. Or go for a monochromatic look with off-white on natural fabric.
Let’s Review the Closed Herringbone Stitch
The closed herringbone stitch is a game-changer for adding texture and dimension to your embroidery projects. Its structured, criss-cross pattern looks so classy as borders, fills, or decorative touches. Now that you know how to stitch it, grab your materials and give it a try. 🌿 Explore more by learning your next stitch!
