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Cushion stitch icon
Cushion stitch

  • Scotch stitch
  • Diagonal satin blocks
Cushion stitch main image

This canvaswork stitch consists of five diagonal stitches combined to form a square block.  Multiple blocks form a grid pattern.

The stitch is also widely known as Scotch stitch; hence the naming of some of its variations: condensed Scotch stitch and Scottish squares.  Confusingly, both Reversed cushion stitch and Scottish squares are sometimes also known as cushion stitch.

Cushion stitch is generously sponsored by Alison Potter

Method

1

Begin with a tent stitch in the top left-hand corner.

2

Move one canvas thread along and make a stitch across two intersections; repeat across three intersections,

3

then two and finally make another tent stitch.

4

Continue the sequence to produce identical blocks that line up vertically and horizontally.

Cushion stitch

Structure of stitch

Common uses

Embroidery Techniques

References

  • S. F. A. Caulfeild, Blanche C. Saward, The Dictionary of Needlework (1882) , p.181
  • Letitia Higgin, RSN Handbook of Embroidery (1880)
  • Jennifer Campbell, Ann-Marie Bakewell, Guide to Embroidery Stitches (2004) , p.182