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Beaded Lock stitch

Beaded Lock stitch

Beaded Lock stitch step sampleBeaded Lock stitch is a variation on double lock stitch. It is a very quick and easy to work beaded embroidery stitch, that looks good as a border or worked row-upon-row for a filling stitch.

You need to be familiar with lock stitch to work this variety.

The samples are worked in a straight line but this stitch will hold a curve if you adjust the angle the foundation stitches in a ray or fan-like manner.

Note: With this stitch, the beading is done during the lacing process using a size 26 tapestry needle as you can thread cotton perle #8 and #5 through the eye of this needle yet it is thin enough to thread a bead and add it to your stitching.

How to work Beaded Lock Stitch

Beaded Lock stitch step 1Make a row of straight stitches of equal length.

Work the lacing from right to left. Bring your thread out on the right side of the first straight stitch.
Pass the thread the needle under the first stitch from the left with the tip pointing right (as illustrated). Pull the needle under the straight stitch.

Add a bead to your working thread.

Beaded Lock stitch step 2

Move to the next straight stitch and pass the needle under from the left with the tip pointing towards the right. Pull the thread through. This will lace together the first two foundation stitches with a bead in the middle. Note that you are lacing the stitches and not going through the fabric.

Continue in this manner along the line of foundation stitches. At the end of the line take your thread to the back of your work.

Beaded Lock stitch step 3Turn your work.

Beaded Lock stitch step 4Work a second line of laced stitches adding beads in between every second foundation stitch as illustrated.

On this top line, you can offset the beads to create a stepped pattern or you can align the beads to form a vertical ridge.

Beaded Lock stitch step 5In the example, I worked both, row upon row,  to create a highly decorative and quick filling stitch.

My book for creative stitchers

Creative Stitches for Contemporary Embroidery book coverIf you enjoy my site you will gain real value from my book:  Creative Stitches for Contemporary Embroidery: Visual Guide to 120 Essential Stitches for Stunning Designs

Feeling stale? Wondering how to add sparkle to your embroidery? I have aimed Creative Stitches for Contemporary Embroidery to be suitable for both beginners and seasoned embroiderers. It introduces techniques to encourage your creative interpretations of stitches. I guide you towards discovering play-points in your embroidery by varying the height and width; by stacking stitches; or by filling multiple rows with the same stitch. With creative variations and demonstrations of tiny tweaks, You will be ready to head off down you own creative path and, of course, illustrated with plenty of eye candy!




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