I tend to use satin stitch or leaf stitch when filling in leaves but that stitch does tend to leave tiny gaps at the centre line of the leaf. Raised fishbone stitch is a great alternative as it creates a central line but as each stitch extends to the side of the leaf there are no gaps where the fabric shows through.

• At the top of the shape bring the needle up close to the centre top

• Take the needle down through the fabric at a diagonal angle at the edge of the shape

• Bring the needle up through the fabric close to the start of the first stitch but on the other side of the centre line

• Take the needle down through the fabric at a diagonal angle at the other side of the shape to the first stitch

• Repeat all the way down the shape, alternating sides A to B then C to D.

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