This embroidery stitch is also known as centipede stitch and knotted loop stitch. This is a line stitch and it is used on plain and even weave fabrics. It has a raised, plaited centre. and it is normally used on the straight, but it will follow a curve, providing that it is gradual.
Loop stitch can also be used to fill narrow shapes by varying the lenght of the outside stitches and outlining the shape with back stitch or stem stitch for greater definition.
It is workes horizontally from right to left along parallel lines, and guidelines may need to be drawn on the fabric to keep the stitches even, if the fabric threads cannot be counted. Straight stitches are worked between the two lines and loop under each preceding stitch to make the plaited centre.
Any type of thread can be used, but a round, twisted thread, suchas pearl cotton, enhances the raised plait.
- This stitch is worked from right to left.
- Bring the thread through at (A) and insert the needle at (B).
- Bring it through again at (C) immediately below (B).
- With the thread to the left and under the needle, pass the needle under the first stitch without piercing the fabric.
