Fern Stitch

Step 1: Preparation

Cut a length of thread, approximately 12 to18 inches long, to ensure it is manageable and doesn't tangle easily. Thread the needle and knot the end of the thread to prevent it from pulling through the fabric. (see our video - Getting Started In Hand Stitching for a simple starting knot , or the Getting Started in Hand Stitching blog page for a description with photos.)

If you are using our stitch guide, mark your fabric. For practice stitching, pencil works well. I have used a 2B pencil here, which is soft enough to make clear marks.

Step 2: Starting the Stitch

Insert the needle into the fabric from the underside at the point where you want to start your stitch. Pull the thread through until the knot rests against the fabric.

Step 3: Making the Stitches

Push the needle back into the fabric, a short distance above. Then, bring the needle back to the front of the fabric through the first hole.

Push the needle back into the fabric, almost level with centre of the stitch, and a little to the left.

Bring the needle back to the front of the fabric through the same first hole. Then push the needle back into the fabric, almost level with the top of the centre of the stitch, and a little to the right.

This is one stitch.

Step 4: Continuing the Pattern

Start the next Fern stitch by bringing the needle up again along the centre line, and down one stitch length. Repeat the instructions above, to create the left and right arms of the stitch.

Continue creating Fern stitches along your stitching line.

Step 5: Finishing the Stitch

When you reach the end of your line of stitching, bring the needle to the under side of the fabric.

Make a small knot close to the fabric to secure the thread. Trim any excess thread with scissors. (see our video - Getting Started in Hand Stitching for a simple end knot, or the Getting Started in Hand Stitching blog page for a description with photos.)

You can change the length of the arms of Fern stitch, to create a shaped filling stitch, for example as a leaf.

Changing the depth of the centre arm will change the density of the stitch.

In our description, this order of the stitches that make up Fern stitch allows for the same process to be used for not only the first Fern stitch, but all the Fern stitches. Some people prefer to make their stitch in a slightly different order. What is important is the resulting 3-pronged stitch.

Fern stitch is mostly decorative and creates a beautiful organic representation of foliage,

Or seaweed.

it can also be used as a filling stitch, changing the stitch to fill the available space, as noted above in our variation.

Our sample flower with a petal stitched in Fern Stitch.