Textile Arts Now: Running stitch

The running stitch or straight stitch is probably the simpest stitch in embroidery. The stitch is worked by passing the needle in and out of the fabric. The result resembles a dashed line. Running stitches may be of varying length. In some cases it is preferable both the lines and the spaces to have equal length. In other cases, it is more convenient the lines to be longer that the spaces and more thread to be visible on the top of the fabric that in the underside. The running stitch can be worked in straight or curved lines. It is also the basic stitch in Sashiko embroidery.

Instructions:

1. Insert the needle into the fabric through point (1) from the back side and pull it until the knot reaches the fabric.
2. Leave a small space from the previous spot, poke the needle into the fabric and pull it through point (2) to the back.

3. Leave a small space on the back of the fabric, poke the needle into the fabric and pull through point (3) to the front.
4. Leave a small space from the previous spot and pass the needle to the back through point (4).

5. Continue working in the same manner, trying to keep the same spaces between lines. Also the sittches should have the same length.

Note: Instead of making the standard up and down movement, you can make several stitches at once by folding the fabric. The first method is called stab stitch and usually requires a hoop or frame.With this method you place one stitch at a time. The second method is called sewing stitch and it is worked with shallow stitches without a hoop.

Note: If you are right handed, stitch from right to left and if you are left handed stitch from left to right.

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