clear navigate_before

Detached chain stitch icon
Detached chain stitch

  • Lazy daisy stitch
  • Single chain stitch
  • Daisy Stitch
  • Link powdering stitch
  • Picot stitch
  • Loop stitch
  • Washable knot stitch
Detached chain stitch main image

​A detached chain stitch is a single chain secured using a holding stitch over the loop instead of another chain.  For a slightly different version, see long-tailed daisy stitch.

For more background see the entry for chain stitch.

Detached chain stitch is generously sponsored by Elizabeth Hewitt

Method

1

Take the needle up through the fabric where you wish the pointed tip of the shape to be.

2

Take the needle back down through the fabric, through the same hole, creating a loop on the surface. Hold onto the loop to avoid pulling it through.

3

Decide on the length you would like the stitch to be and bring the needle up in the inside of the loop at this point.

4

Leave your needle in the fabric and draw the thread through to tighten the loop against the needle.

5

Take the needle over the loop then down through the fabric to make a small holding stitch to secure it.

Detached chain stitch

Structure of stitch

References

  • Mrs Archibald Christie, Samplers and Stitches (1921) , p.40
  • Mary Thomas’s Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches (1934) , p.71–2
  • Jacqui McDonald, RSN Essential Stitch Guides: Crewelwork (2010)