How to work stem stitch
A slightly twisted, rope-like line, traditionally used for stems and outlines.
Step by step
- Bring the needle up at the start of the line.
- Go down one stitch length along the line and come back up about halfway back, beside the stitch you just made.
- Keep the working thread on the same side of the needle every time, so the twist stays even.
- Carry on along the line, each new stitch overlapping the last by about half.
- Finish by taking the needle to the back at the end of the last stitch.
Pinny's tip
Always keep the thread on the same side (below the needle if you stitch left to right).
Always keep the thread on the same side (below the needle if you stitch left to right).
Watch
How to do Stem Stitch - Basics series #7 - Embroidery for beginners - Tutorial (2:07)
By I Heart Stitch Art · Open on YouTube
Chosen from its title and channel: a 2-minute video from I Heart Stitch Art on the same topic as this guide. Embedded from YouTube with credit; we don't host it. It only loads when you press play.
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Sources
All checked November 1, 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.