Smocking
An embroidery technique that gathers fabric so it can stretch. Before elastic it was common in cuffs and bodices.
What it is
Gathering fabric with embroidery so it stretches.
Who it suits
Dressmakers and embroiderers.
What you need
Light cotton, a grid fabric like gingham, and floss.
A first project
Hand pleating a gingham strip.
The smocking guides
Beginner's guide
What you need
Techniques and stitches
How to hand pleat for smocking
Rows of running stitch on a grid.
How to work cable stitch
A braided look.
Mistakes and fixes
Next steps
Sources
All checked 1 November 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.
