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Ermine stitch icon
Ermine stitch

Ermine stitch main image

Ermine stitch consists of a vertical stitch crossed towards the bottom with two diagonal stitches. 

The shape formed is similar to the heraldic pattern called ermine, itself based on the winter coat of the stoat.

add_circleMy Stitches
Crossed Isolated Leaves Shading Powdered filling Crewelwork Surface

Ermine stitch is generously sponsored by Jessica Robinson

Method

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Ermine stitch method stage 1 illustration
Ermine stitch method stage 1 photograph
1

Begin by making a vertical, straight stitch.

Ermine stitch method stage 2 illustration
Ermine stitch method stage 2 photograph
2

Bring the needle out to the left, slightly lower down from the top of the first stitch.

Ermine stitch method stage 3 illustration
Ermine stitch method stage 3 photograph
3

Take the needle down diagonally to the right, ensuring it finishes slightly above the bottom of the first stitch.

Ermine stitch method stage 4 illustration
Ermine stitch method stage 4 photograph
4

Bring the needle up on the left hand side, parallel with where the needle was just taken down and close to the very first stitch.

Ermine stitch method stage 5 illustration
Ermine stitch method stage 5 photograph
5

Take the needle down diagonally to the right hand side of the first stitch.

Ermine stitch method stage 6 illustration
Ermine stitch method stage 6 photograph
6

Repeat the stitch, filling the space as desired.

Ermine stitch

Structure of stitch

Crossed Isolated

Common uses

Leaves Shading Powdered filling

Embroidery Techniques

Crewelwork Surface

Related Stitches

Cross stitch

References

  • Mary Thomas’s Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches (1934) , p.84–5
  • Jennifer Campbell, Ann-Marie Bakewell, Guide to Embroidery Stitches (2004)