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Interlocking ‘Z’s (pattern) icon
Interlocking ‘Z’s (pattern)

Interlocking ‘Z’s (pattern) main image

​A blackwork pattern made up of diagonal stitches, one long and two short. It is good for filling more architectural shapes and can be effective both horizontally and vertically. It is a slightly more open pattern where the individual lines overlap but are not linked.

Interlocking ‘Z’s (pattern) is generously sponsored by Elizabeth and Marianne Dawson-Marsh

Method

1

Start by stitching a horizontal row of diagonal stitches, angled like a backslash, each stitch crossing two intersections.  Alternate rows are stitched bottom right to top left and then vice versa.

2

Work left and right across the space to complete rows of diagonal stitches, leaving four fabric threads between each row.

3

Continue to fill the space.

4

Working over the space again, join the existing stitches with long diagonal lines to form Z shapes.  Starting with the bottom right stitch, bring the needle up at the top of the stitch and take it down at the bottom of the stitch above (this new stitch should cross four threads vertically and two horizontally).

5

Notice that each Z is offset from those above and below.

6

Working vertically, up and down,  continue to fill the space.

Interlocking ‘Z’s (pattern)

Structure of stitch

Embroidery Techniques

References