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Zigzag (pattern) icon
Zigzag (pattern)

Zigzag (pattern) main image

​A blackwork pattern where lines are formed by vertical rows of small zigzags, with each stitch worked diagonally over the fabric. It is quite a dense pattern, good for creating a linear effect.

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Pattern Open Filling Shading Blackwork

Zigzag (pattern) is generously sponsored by Rachel Nichols

Method

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Zigzag (pattern) method stage 1 illustration
Zigzag (pattern) method stage 1 photograph
1

Make a diagonal stitch from top right to bottom left over two intersections.

Zigzag (pattern) method stage 2 illustration
Zigzag (pattern) method stage 2 photograph
2

Bring the needle up two intersections down to the right and complete a diagonal stitch connected to the last.

Zigzag (pattern) method stage 3 illustration
Zigzag (pattern) method stage 3 photograph
3

Repeat the last two steps and continue to work a zigzag column.

Zigzag (pattern) method stage 4 illustration
Zigzag (pattern) method stage 4 photograph
4

Working back up the shape, complete another identical column two threads away from the previous one.

Zigzag (pattern) method stage 5 illustration
Zigzag (pattern) method stage 5 photograph
5

Continue working columns across the shape ensuring each stitch is in line with the stitches in the previous column.

Zigzag (pattern)

Structure of stitch

Pattern

Common uses

Open Filling Shading

Embroidery Techniques

Blackwork

Related Stitches

Interlocking ‘Z’s (pattern) Arrowhead stitch Open zigzag (pattern)

References

  • Becky Hogg, RSN Essential Stitch Guides: Blackwork (2010) , p.50
  • Various Authors, The Royal School of Needlework Book of Embroidery (2018) , p.147