Portuguese Stem Stitch In Hand Embroidery (Step By Step & Video)

Portuguese Stem Stitch is another variation of the stem stitch. This has an effect of couching. While we weave the thread after the entire stitch is done for couching, in this stitch, it is done while working on the stem stitch.

Though this looks complicated, it is not so. As you see the step by step pictorials below, you will notice how simple it actually is. You loop around the stitch as you work the stem stitch. If you know stem stitch, then this will be pretty easy for you.

What you will need?

• Any fabric.
• Embroidery hoop, 15cm (6″) (Bigger if you are working on a larger design) ( You can purchase a set of 6 hoops from Amazon for your basic needs.)
• Tapestry needle
• Embroidery thread (You can buy this pack of 36 shades of the DMC embroidery floss.)

How many strands of floss do you need for making the Portuguese Stem stitch?

You can use all 6 strands of the floss. But if you are working on a finer design, then start with 2 strands of floss and increase the number of strands according to your design.

Step by Step Pictorial Process of making the Portuguese Stem stitch

1. Start by working the stem stitch.

2. After completing the first stem stitch, simply loop around the stitch with the needle. Pass the needle underneath the stitch without taking it down the fabric. Pull the thread to form a knot around the stitch.

3. Again, take the needle under the stitch for the second time and loop around the stitch for the second time.

4. Continue working in a similar fashion by making a stem stitch.

5. And looping around the stitches.

6. Take the needle down at the end of the pattern and secure with a knot. You can check out the video tutorial for easier understanding.

Tips for working the Portuguese Stem stitch

• If you knot the stem stitch, it will easy for you to make this stitch.
• Do not pierce the fabric while looping around the stitches.

What is this stitch used for?

• You can replace this stitch with the stem stitch.
• It can be used as an outline, filling, branches, stems etc.

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More stitches tutorials:

• Stem Stitch
• Chain Stitch
• Running Stitch
• French Knot
• Lazy Daisy
• Back Stitch
• Cable Chain Stitch
• Fly Stitch
• Bullion Knot
• Woven Trellis Stitch
• Long And Short Stitch

Check out the video tutorial below

So until next time,

Keep Stitching,

Fareeha

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