How to couch metal threads
Lay a pair of threads and stitch over them.
Step by step
- Lay down a pair of metal threads. Working in pairs keeps the line smooth.
- Couch them with a single waxed thread, each stitch at 90 degrees to the metal.
- Make it tight enough to hold but not so tight that it dents the metal.
- Come up about 3 to 4 mm along and repeat, keeping stitches evenly spaced.
- To turn, fold the threads back and couch just below the last stitch.
- On the next row, place stitches halfway between the previous ones, in a brickwork pattern.
- Plunge the metal ends to the back separately and secure them.
Watch
Couched Passing For Goldwork: Professional Results With Simple Steps (18:52)
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Sources
All checked November 1, 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.