The 3 Main Types of Specialty Embroidery

Embroidery stitching has three main styles and often it can be challenging to identify the differences. These distinct stitches, whether alone or in combination, are used to create the beautiful custom embroidered designs on hats, jackets and more. Each style creates a different embroidered look on the fabric, so what is the difference and what type is used in a specific design?

 

SATIN – A satin stitch is the most commonly used stitch when it comes to embroidery. This will display a glossy, flat, and even texture resembling satin fabric. These shiny stitches are commonly used in lettering and work well for filling in small areas and highlighting larger designs. The stitches lie flush and neat against the fabric which lack any raised padding, making them a functional basic stitch that has many purposes. In the fabric world, satin stitches can also be called damask stitches.

 

RUN – The second type of specialty embroidery is a run stitch but will often be referred to as a walking stitch. Whether the stitch is walking or running, it looks the same. The stitches look like long dashes and may look hand-sewn. The run stitch is used primarily for detailed work and when used with the satin stitch create a nicely designed detailed image, such as a logo. Finally, the run stitch is considered compatible with all types of fabric, making it the most versatile stitch.

 

FILL – Used to fill big areas with color, fill stitches can act as the foundation when used underneath other types of embroidery. They work to create a stable surface for detailed embroidery when sewn on light fabrics such as silk. Fill stitches are used to assemble many rows to create solid shapes. When using digitized embroidery system fill stitches can be marde into patterns, ultimately offering variety to embroidery projects like weaving or chain.

 

Although there are three basic specialty embroidery stitches, the run stitch and the satin stitch are the most commonly used types. While each stitch offers its own unique look and texture, all three stitches can be combined to make a piece of custom embroidery that looks rich and detailed.

Written by, Jesse Brown.

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