Slipped Cable Chain Stitch Tutorial

Slipped Cable chain stitch can be used as decorative linear stitch on both plain and even-weave fabrics. Based on cable chain stitch, it follows a curve well and you can add beads to this stitch easily. Cable chain is the foundation of  this stitch so if you need a refresher on how to work cable chain you will find it here. A foundation row of cable chain is worked with a return row of stitches slipped under the link which means it looks a bit like wheatear stitch but if you look carefully at wheatear you will see that a chain stitch is slipped under 2 stitches in a V like formation whereas with slipped cable chain the V is created after the chain stitch is made.

How to hand embroider Slipped Cable Chain stitch

Work a row of cable chain stitch. At the end of the row at the last link take the needle to back of the fabric and bring the thread out to the side of the line on a diagonal, as illustrated.

Slide the needle under the bar of the bottom link. As you do this take care not pick up any of the fabric.

To complete the V, insert the needle, back into the fabric on the right hand side of the foundation row of cable chain as illustrated. Take the needle diagonally across the back of the fabric, and bring it out on further up on the left side as illustrated.

Repeat these steps along the line working a row from the bottom up. You can just do one line of slipped stitches or choose to do two.

This is a very quick and versatile stitch, which is interesting on its own but also is interesting when more slip stitches are added. Secondary slipped stitches can be added in the same thread or in a different colour or a thread of a different thickness. For a different effect you can use ribbon and fine cord for this stitch.

In the sample  at the top of the article a finer thread was used to create another row of slip stitches. You can vary the length, direction and number of the slipped stitches to create loads interesting patterns.

It is also a relatively quick stitch to work. When Slipped Cable Chain is worked on a curve it creates a very organic look to the stitch. It can also look good with a bead stitched to the middle of each chain or add beads on the end of the spikes.

It is a versatile fun stitch to have in your in repertoire of stitches.
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Have you seen my Stitchers Templates?

As a stitcher who loves crazy quilting and embroidery I designed these templates with other stitchers in mind. With my templates you can create hundreds of different patterns to embroider on your stitching and crazy quilting projects. They are easy to use, totally clear so you can position them easily and they are compact in your sewing box.

Crazy Quilt Templates set 1 you will find here 
Crazy Quilt Templates set 2 you will find here