Hand embroidery
Decorating fabric with needle and thread, one of the oldest forms of needlework.
What it is
Decorating fabric with a needle and thread. Early stitches such as chain, blanket, running, satin and cross stitch are still the ones beginners learn first.
Who it suits
Anyone who likes drawing, flowers or lettering. It is portable, quiet and cheap to start, and suits short sessions.
What you need
A hoop, embroidery needles, stranded cotton, cotton or linen fabric, small scissors and a fabric pen.
A first project
A name or word in back stitch with French knot dots, finished in the hoop.
The hand embroidery guides
Beginner's guide
What you need
Techniques and stitches
How to work back stitch
The best first stitch: a solid, even line for outlines and lettering.
How to work stem stitch
A slightly twisted, rope-like line, traditionally used for stems and outlines.
How to work chain stitch
Linked loops that make a bold line, or a filling when worked in rows.
How to work satin stitch
Straight stitches laid side by side to fill a shape with smooth, shiny colour.
How to make a French knot
A small raised dot of thread for eyes, flower centres and texture.
First project
Mistakes and fixes
Next steps
Sources
All checked 1 November 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.
