Whipped Barred chain stitch is an interesting variety of Chain stitch. The whipping forms a firm central line to the stitch. Just like chain stitch, whipped Barred chain stitch is a linear stitch that follows curves well, is easily worked on many types of fabrics, and is suitable for a large variety of threads.
I have illustrated it here with a contrasting thread, so that you can see how to form the stitch, but you can work it in the same thread. If you work this stitch on the curve, it looks very organic and makes great twiggy bits in floral sprays, etc. Use this stitch for freeform stitching, and it combines easily with beads.
How to work Whipped Barred Chain Stitch
Commence by working a line of Barred Chain stitch. If you need a tutorial on how to work Barred Chain stitch, you will find it here.
You can whip this stitch from left to right or top to bottom. Work it in the direction that feels most comfortable. Bring the whipping thread out next to the base of the first chain stitch. Pass your needle under the first chain stitch, taking care not to pick up any fabric as you do this. Now pull the needle through.
Take the needle over the top and pass the needle under the next barred chain stitch. Now pull the thread under the stitch. You pass the needle under the stitch, not the fabric.
Continue along the line. And that is Whipped Barred Chain Stitch — happy stitching!
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