The chain stitch is the most basic looped stitch in the chain stitch family. This fundamental embroidery technique uses a simple looping stitch to create an interlocking pattern that - you guessed it - resembles a chain!

Just as the name implies, the split stitch is created by splitting the previous stitch! The split stitch is another great outline stitch, like the back stitch and stem stitch, and it's especially helpful when working with small curves.

This stitch is a variant of the back stitch. It begins with a straight stitch, and consists of a series of short stitches that create a rope-like texture as you overlap the threads. The twists are how the stem stitch can have such a flowing effect, which makes it a wonderful choice for curvy lines like outlines, lettering, and you guessed it - plant stems!

Many stitches build off of the back stitch, so this is a great one to have in your repertoire! At first glace, the back stitch looks very similar to the straight stitch, but it's actually a series of straight stitches being worked in a back and forth motion - which is how it got its name!