Adding a quote, message, name or date to a piece of embroidery can add a different dimension and meaning.

Here are some stitches that I recommend using if you want to add text to your project:

Backstitch

This is a universal stitch that can be used for so many purposes. In this example, a simple back stitch was used to create the outline to the letters of the name.

Whipped backstitch

This is rapidly becoming my favourite stitch. The wrapping round the backstitch foundation layer gives a smooth, rope like line of embroidery perfect for lettering.

The green text is stitched in backstitch and you can see the difference that whipping around backstitch really makes.

This banner was a free gift from a Mollie Makes magazine and shows how great this stitch is when adding text.

Split Stitch

In this example, split stitch was used to outline the words. Using yarn rather than embroidery floss, this stitch created a plaited look to the stitching.

French Knots

Words can also be created on an embroidery using the negative space approach. In this case, the letters were created by using French knots outlines. This stitch could also be used to fill in lettering.

Straight Stitch

This is a great way to fill in lettering without having to cover every millimetre of the word in stitches. Just cover the letter with stitches at different angles using different threads (or all the same thread).

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