Reverse Chain Stitch In Hand Embroidery (Step by Step & Video)

Reverse Chain Stitch is a part of the chain stitch family. This is a simple stitch that looks identical to the chain stitch. The only difference is the way we stitch. It goes in a reverse direction instead of the usual forward direction.

What you will need?

• Any fabric.
• Embroidery hoop, 15cm (6″) (Bigger if you are working on a larger design) ( You can purchase a set of 6 hoops from Amazon for your basic needs.)
• Tapestry needle
• Embroidery thread (You can buy this pack of 36 shades of the DMC embroidery floss.)

How many strands of floss do you need for making the Reverse Chain Stitch?

You can use all 6 strands of the floss. But if you are working on a finer design, then start with 2 strands of floss and increase the number of strands according to your design. I have used all 6 strands for making this stitch.

Step by Step Pictorial Process of making the Reverse Chain Stitch

1. We will work this stitch on a curved line. Start by working a lazy daisy. After working the lazy daisy, instead of taking the stitch in the forward motion, take it in the reverse direction. Insert the needle from point C to point D as shown in the above picture.

2. Pass the needle through the first chain and pull the thread gently. Insert from point D to point E. Notice that when you pull the thread, a chain would have formed at point D.

3. Next, pass the needle again through the second chain without piercing the fabric. Continue in a similar fashion till the end of the pattern.

Tips for working the Reverse Chain Stitch

1. Drawing the line will help you to work this stitch easily.
2. Knowing chain stitch will help to work this stitch pretty easy.
3. Do not pull the thread too tightly.
4. This is a surface embroidery stitch, meaning, it is worked on the surface of the fabric instead of taking it down.

What is this stitch used for?

• This stitch can be used as a border or as a filling to any pattern.
• It looks great on a motif.
• It can be easily replaced with the chain stitch if you are more comfortable working this stitch.

(THIS POST PROBABLY CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. OUR FULL DISCLOSURE POLICY IS REALLY BORING, BUT YOU CAN FIND IT HERE)

More stitches:

• Maidenhair stitch
• Wheatear Stitch
• Fern Stitch
• Cast On Stitch
• Basque Stitch
• Long and Short Stitch
• Trellis Stitch
• Closed Feather Stitch
• satin stitch
• back stitch

Check out the video tutorial below

So until next time,

Keep Stitching,

Fareeha

Pin this image for later reference: