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Shisha stitch (variation 2) icon
Shisha stitch (variation 2)

Shisha stitch (variation 2) main image

This version of shisha stitch uses buttonhole stitch to form a braided effect.

For alternative methods of working both the base structure and the stitch itself, see shisha stitch variation 1; for a third version of the decorative stitch see shisha stitch variation 3.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) is generously sponsored by Annie McDonald

Method

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 1 photograph
1

Start with a waste knot and make two tiny starting stitches, which will be covered with a circular disc or mirror.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 2 photograph
2

To anchor the mirror, work eight straight stitches in pairs as shown.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 3 photograph
3

Take the last pair of straight stitches under the first pair.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 4 photograph
4

Bring the needle up a little outside of the edge of the mirror. Pass the needle under the grid framework to form a buttonhole stitch.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 5 photograph
5

Take the needle back down through the fabric right next to the mirror, leaving a loop on the surface.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 6 photograph
6

Bring the needle up inside the loop a little further away from the edge of the mirror.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 7 photograph
7

Pull the thread towards the centre of the mirror to tighten the stitch and then pull back towards the outside of the mirror.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 8 photograph
8

Make another buttonhole stitch and continue as before.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 9 photograph
9

The length of the decorative stitch around the edge is randomly long and short in this example, but you could make all the stitches of the same length if you prefer.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 10 photograph
10

Continue until you reach the starting point.

Shisha stitch (variation 2) method stage 11 photograph
11

Take the needle down through the fabric and secure the thread on the reverse.

Shisha stitch (variation 2)

Common uses

Embroidery Techniques

References

  • Mary Thomas’s Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches (1934) , p.73
  • Jean Simpson, Shisha mirror embroidery: a contemporary approach (1978) , p.19