This week I have stitch that can be used easily in Christmas motifs as it makes berries! It’s called Berry stitch but is also known as double lazy daisy stitch or double detached chain stitch.
It can be worked on any type of fabric and is easy stitch to do and learn making it ideal to propose as part of the challenge in a period when everyone is busy and has ‘to do’ lists miles long. So take a few minutes out for yourself and try a sample of this stitch.
Start by working a single detached chain stitch
You can work it as an isolated stitch, in patterns or substitute it in places where you might want a fatter detached chain stitch. It can be worked close together in a line, or massed.
Since this stitch is made up of two detached chain stitches you need to know how to work detached chain.
A twisted thread, such as pearl or soft cotton, is ideal as it will help hold the shape.
Insert the needle back just above the top of the first chain stitch.
Take the needle through the fabric behind the first chain stitch bringing the point of the needle out a short space below.
With the thread wrapped under the needle point pull the needle through the fabric to make the second chain stitch.
The completed stitch looks like a fat chain stitch.
You can use it as you would detached chain making flower shapes.
As your pattern dictates you can increase or decrease the number of petals in the flower.
You can also work this stitch in two steps the first round of chain stitches being in one weight of thread and the second being in a heavier or slightly textured thread.
Another way of working is to work the first round of detached chain in one colour and the second detached chain in another.
You can also substitute the first chain with an oyster stitch to produce some really interesting results.
Berry stitch worked in two steps in silk ribbon can be very effective.
Once again the challenge is:
For new hands to learn the stitch
Or
If you are an experienced stitcher take the stitch and push it a little further in a creative manner or combine this stitch with one of the stitches already covered in TAST 2012. If you have worked a sample in a previous challenge feel free to post a link in comments as it will inspire people but if you have time do try another sample and do something different and new!
How to join in
Stitch a sample, take a photograph of it, put in online in your blog, flickr site or on stitchin fingers page, swing by here and leave a comment with your full web address so people can visit and see your sample.
Any special rules?
There are no rules but I do have a request, please link back here.
Interesting work will be featured
Each week I will link to interesting samples that participants have stitched order to draw attention to how the stitch is used.
Further information
If you need further information on the challenge a list of stitches covered so far or directions on how to participate please visit the TAST FAQ page.
You can read back through TAST articles by browsing Challenges - Take a Stitch Tuesday category
Other groups and networks
You can also share your explorations with other members on the social network site of your choice. There is a Facebook TAST 2012 page, stitchin fingers group and the flickr TAST site. All these sub groups are set up at request of members
