Good morning, and welcome to my second Here Comes Christmas give-away of 2024!
Today, I’ll announce the winner of last week’s embroidery kit, and introduce to today’s give-away for two winners.
First, let us take care of business and see who won the Wildflowers in Wool embroidery kit from Friday’s give-away.
Using a random number generator, the winner of Wildflowers in Wool is Sue MacLeod! Yay for Sue!! I’ll send you an email
The Essential Embroidery Stitches Card Deck x 2
Today’s give-away will be drawn for two winners, and I’ll be sending you each this really cool thing from Search Press (thanks to Search Press North America) called The Essential Embroidery Stitches Card Deck.
I know it sounds strange, an embroidery stitch card deck. But let me show you…
Inside the box, you’ll find 50 embroidery stitch cards, arranged and color-coded by stitch category.
On the front of each card, you’ll find the name of the stitch; an image of the stitch, stitched; and useful information about the stitch, including other names that it may be known by.
On the back of the card, you’ll find a hand illustration depicting how to work the stitch, with easy-to-follow written instructions.
The advantage of a card deck of stitch instructions? You can pick out the stitches you want to use on your project and tuck the cards in your project bag and you’re all set!
They also work great for folks who stitch at a table. Instead of holding a book open, you can just lay your cards on the table.
They’re fun!
The stitches come from Betty Barnden’s book, The Embroidery Stitch Bible, which is one of my favorite stitch dictionaries. I reviewed it here. It’s come out in different editions over the years – there’s a current one that’s been updated that I’ll be giving away a little later on! (Along with another new stitch dictionary on the market…)
Give-Away Guidelines
This give-away has ended. The winners were announced in the post on Wednesday, Dec 18.
If you would like to enter this give-away, please follow these guidelines!
1. Leave a comment on this blog post (you can follow this link directly to the correct place to leave your comment).
2. In your comment, answer the following question:
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why? LOL! But really, I am curious…
(You must answer the question to be included in the give-away!)
3. No anonymous comments – please leave a recognizable name or nickname – and please make certain that your email address on the comment form is correct. We will contact the winner by email.
4. Leave your comment by Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 7:00 AM CST. I will draw two random winners on Wednesday morning and announce them that day, when I post the next Give-Away.
This give-away is open to anyone. We will ship overseas if the winner is outside the US. However, winners are responsible for any customs or duties.
Please note that your comment may not appear immediately. Comments are moderated, to keep the comment area free of spam. It will eventually show up!
My one stitch I’d do if I could only do one for the rest of my life would be cross stitch, because, whilst I love all the others, I like to complete full coverage art pieces.
I would use the stem stitch which can also be the outline stitch. You can weave it, whip it. It’s flexible-use it for outlines, filling shapes,borders. It’s not difficult to do.
If I could only use one stitch for the rest of my life, it would have to be the straight stitch, because I could manipulate it to so many different effects, even the basic cross stitch (two straight stitches)!
I’d pick French knots – I could do a lot with pointillism!
Well, I would choose Bayeux stitch if I could only do that for the rest of my life. But if that doesn’t count as one stitch…hmmmm….Long and short stitch, then. Yes, I could live with only that. Thanks for your fabulous blog!!
One stitch for the rest of my life?! I’m going to go with Stem Stitch. It’s very zen to work this stitch, especially outlining.
Bonnie
Back stitch.
Algerian eyelet and Picot stitch
I love doing the chain stitch! It’s simple but can look so magnificent at the same time.
One stitch would be the tent stitch or half cross stitch because there are so very many things you can do with it. I love petit point but would also enjoy using it in samplers – on very fine linen.
I love the cast on and double cast on stitches. I find them so useful in many designs.
I’m partial to the chain stitch. You can do so much with it.
I would use satin stitch because it can be used in many different ways
French knots! They can outline or fill
It would have to be the feather stitch! It’s one of the few I do that I’m consistently successful with!
If I just could stitch one stitch it would be daisy chain. I love the little daisies. Just love.
So hard to decide. I think chain stitch because there are so many ways to use it and it can look very different depending on the type of thread.
I think I could spend my time making blanket stitches in their various incantations. The stitch is very adaptable and creates great texture.
Incredibly useful idea to pick the stitch cards and put them with the project.
I think I’d focus on the bullion knot as it can be used to layer textures & colors. I haven’t actually used this on a large project yet except for a scapular with a lamb. It helped me make the head less rabbit like and provided more shading
First of all, I don’t think I could do that! My favorite types of stitching are Hardanger, drawn thread, and pulled thread, which all require more than one type of stitch. But if I were forced under pain of death to pick one stitch, it would have to be cross-stitch because you can do so many things with it. (Are long-armed cross, elongated cross, etc. deemed the same or are they different?)
If I could stitch only one stitch it would be chain stitch. It makes a great line of stitches and when you nestle rows of chain stitch together it’s a great filler stitch. It’s one of the first stitches I learned and I’ve used it often in my hand work.
I love French knots. Yes they are difficult in the beginning but once you have mastered the technique they are beautiful. They can be used in so many different ways to enhance a design. Large or small, they have the special way of completing a design.
Outline or stem stitch — they are topographically the same stitch, so let’s not have that discussion. You can do so much with that stitch. You can fill an area, you can make it thick or thin, you can do just about anything.
The one stitch would be the lazy daisy. If I was limited to just one that would describe me. Lol
Thanks for all the fun things and ideas you have.
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching just ONE stitch it would be the turkey stitch because it goes from 2D to 3D. It’s magical!
Hard Choice, but I guess if I had to spend the rest of my life doing one stich it would be the chair stich.
I love the Bayeux tapestry stitch! I do historical recreation as a Viking persona and this stitch is a wonderfully creative compound stitch (satin and couching). Keeping both layers of the stitch one color gives texture to the project. Adding a different color to one layer can completely pop an image or section of the project. It is my absolute favorite stitch!
The simple backstitch because I like to sew poems on my cross stitch. Merry Christmas to you and thank you for putting so much work into your emails.
The stitch I would pick would be stem stitch.
Thanks for these giveaways!
I think I could do stem stitch forever. I love how it looks.
I love to make french knots.
Stem stitch! Filigree is fun!
It would be the chain stitch because it is so versatile.
If I could only do one stitch it would be long/short. This way I can do a lot of different things. Granted you might consider it cheating but I could do lines like a split stitch but not. Also it would replicate satin stitch. So it would be very versatile.
OK , this is fun. If there was only one stitch I could do it would be French Knots! I love the look of dots, of filling an area with colorful dots. I know it doesn’t cover as fully as say satin stitch but to me it’s more fun! Merry Christmas!
If only one stitch for rest of my life it would be the cross stitch. It can be used to fill an area, there are variations, its easy and fast, can be worked with all threads, and lends itself to many design results/decisions depending on how one applies the thread colors and variations of the stitch.
My favorite category of stitch is SMOCKING. So I guess I would smock for forever if that is the only one I could choose! Hahaha!
I use chain stitch a lot. I can keep a project on hand all the time. Work while watching/listening to tv and during conversations with visitors. Makes me feel more productive as my mobility diminishes. I love all your tutorials on stitches. I currently have on again/off again project of a tote bag covered in different stitches but my go to is Chain Stitch.
Bargello! For its infinite possibilities to explore color, shape, texture, and themes abstract and concrete. ❤️
The backstitch
Hi. If i could only use one stitch for the rest of my sewing life….i think it’s pick chain stitch. Why? Well if i needed to join seams. It would be little bulky but would work. Decoration. A few ways to do a chain stich plus thread ribbons ect through the loops. Filling large areas of embroidery. Yeah i think chain stitch would cover that too. Now you have me thinking about it. I don’t use chain stitch as much as I should. Great question. Many thanks and Merry Chrismas
The stitch I would pick to do would be The Blanket Stitch. It can be used to finish edges on many embroidery or craft projects, all ways of hemming, seam finishing on clothing..decoration on clothing. I think it is the most versatile.
Absolutely the blanket stitch because it can anchor down appliqué pieces and finish off edges of blocks and even used to put on binding if you flip binding from back to front
the blanket stitch it is the most widely used stich for many things
A chain Stitch for every occasion!
Your website is so encouraging and informative!
If I had to embroider just ONE stitch, it would be the chain stitch! I love the texture it brings to a piece of art!
If I could use only one still the rest of my life, it would be the satin stitch. Even using cotton floss, I think it has a shiny look.
I am a beginner, so I don’t know a lot stitches yet. Not sure of the name, but the fish one, I like the way it turns out. I also love, love, love doing the French knots.
Thank you , I enjoy your work Patreon site.
I would do the backstitch
I would choose to stitch the Palestrina knot stitch. It’s beautiful, but for quite a while I had to watch a video to remember how the stitch is done. Now I know it, don’t need to watch a video and really enjoy doing this stitch.
Blanket stitch, a great stitch for felt appliqué which I like to do
Tne chain stitch It is versitle and can folow a curve. It is a full look stitch for filling in a larger spaces. Maggie Linn
The blanket stitch hands down! I love this stitch! I’ve used it for so many applications and at one point time just for fun, I did a whole flower arrangement with it. It was so interesting to see the results because I did them in such a way, you didn’t notice it was just one kind of stitch.
Straight stitch! This simple up and down can join fabrics, and it can emulate so many other stitches. Isn’t satin stitch just nestling a series of straight stitches side by each? Top stitching is straight stitches with spacing. Running back stitch again is straight stitching. A French knot could be faked by laying tiny straight stitches on top of each other. Feather could be faked too. Padding? No problem. With creativity, straight stitch can keep you stitching and never let you be bored! We do love a challenge, right??
The stitch I would most want to stitch is the lazy daisy stitch! I think it is fun to do and I love flowers! Thanks for making this such an easy give away entry. I hate when I have to follow 500 people and tag 200 just to be entered. You know we love you and don’t need all that! Hope I win I could use all these cards to help me with my stitching! I didn’t know there was such a thing!
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why? – It would probably be the cross stitch – you can make a wide variety of things with just this stitch.
Stem because it can be used for lettering, red work etc.
I love the blanket stitch. I guess because I like wool and felt applique and I use this often in things I stitch like Christmas ornaments and birthday postcards. The blanket stitch is easy but also decorative. There are so many stitches it’s hard to pick just one.
If I could only use one stitch forever, it would have to be the chain stitch. It is my current go to for most stitching projects and is rather versatile.
I love Needle n’ Thread! It’s the most helpful, friendliest embroidery site I’ve yet found. I love Mary’s video tutorials. I still consider myself a beginner, so this site has come in handy countless times. Thank you Mary and Merry Christmas!!
Because of its versatility and simplicity, I’d pick regular cross stitch since I could still stitch so many different designs even though I do love speciality stitches, they are just too specialized.
One stitch would become boring. The variety is what I like about embroidery. But, to answer your question, I would say the bullion stitch. It took a while to get the feel for it and understand about the proper needle. Now I love it.
If I could only use 1 stitch for the rest of my life, it would be the stem stitch. It’s a line stitch straight or curved. Can be used as filler, with color changes you can shade and has a natural beautiful texture. I don’t think that there is a single fiber type out there that would look nice in a stem stitch.
couching…love blending colors
Lol! Well, I think if I had to use just one stitch for the rest of my stitching life it would be cross stitch. I think. It seems to me that I could still accomplish quite a few projects using just that stitch.
Thank you, Mary, for your generosity!
Best wishes,
Linda B.
Buttonhole stitch! All the way. It is versatile and looks wonderful, close together or spaced far apart. by far my favorite.
The split stitch as it can be used for filling areas and outlining…
My favourite stitch that I could do over and over again is the Smyrna cross – small or big. I had occasion this year on an ornament to do it with a variegated floss and it just looked so cute!
Stem stitch – I use it primarily for outlining but can be a covering stitch as well! Can be thick or thin depending on amount of strands applied!
French knots for the win!
If I was limited to one stitch, I think I’d choose chain stitch. I’ve used it for outlining, filling, and in its detached form, flowers ( I assume that would be acceptable!). It also lends itself wonderfully to whipping, lacing, etc.
Thanks , Mary. Warmest regards to you and best wishes for a Happy New Year!
I would stitch the French knot. I love the rhythm of doing multiple kknots. I love the results – nice little knots in a row or grouping.
The chain stitch. There’s just something about that stitch I find very relaxing. It could be done in small or large chains for a little different look. It’s very pretty!
Anything Christmas!
(I doubt I would start a BAP to work on forever!)
If I had to use only one stitch for the rest of my embroidery years, I would choose French knots. They are very versatile; from using them to outline to using them for filling. I love French knots!
Oh my gosh! I want to buy these! They look fabulous!!
Favorite stitch I use would be the stem stitch.
I would do the lazy daisy stitch! I learned it from my Mom as a 9 year old and fell in love with it – so it reminds me of good days with my Mom and makes me happy.
That would be blanket stitch mostly because it is so versatile but the best part is that it reminds me of a special friend who always hugged me and in fact everyone ! ( hug )
I think if I could only do one stitch it would be the backstitch. It is useful for outlining a design and can possibly be used for filling in a design if the stitches are close together and a proper length…
I would choose the blanket stitch because I could use it in many different projects
I think my favorite stitch is the sheaf stitch. I like the rhythm created by stitch each segment of the stitch and I also like the texture of the finished stitch as well as the sheen of the fiber is displayed.
If there were only one stitch for the rest of my life, I think it would have to be satin stitch. That is not to say that I am especially good at it – in fact, I spend a lot of time trying to space the stitches well to fill the area and in coming up in just the right space to maintain the shape. However, it shows up in so many of my projects that I think they would be lacking without it.
If I was only able to use one stitch for the rest of my stitching life it would be blanket stitch as there are many variations of this stitch and I think it is possible to complete many pieces with this one stitch.
Now I want to try that!
Sue
Well, this is fun! I would have to say a chain stitch as it can be delicate yet prominent at the same time. It gives a little more thread to the line so it can still function as an outline l, but gives more interest. It’s a quick an easy stitch as well.
I think it would be chain stitch. So many things you can do with that simple stitch. Outline, fill, Tambour!
I think my favorite stitch is the sheaf stitch. I like the rhythm created by stitching each segment of the stitch and I also like the texture of the finished stitch as well as the sheen of the fiber is displayed.
Ooo! That’s a tough question. I guess I would use the backstitch, since you can outline with it and do curves. Hmmm. That really got me thinking.
I would chose outline or stem stitch. You can use it is a number of different ways besides just outlining with it.
Interesting question – for me, it would have to be cross stitch. It’s the first one I learned, and with counted cross stitch, I think it would be the most versatile.
My “only one stitch” would be the fly stitch because there are so many variations—symmetrical, asymmetrical, short, long, fat, skinny, etc. Plus, in context, the stitch looks like flying birds (I’m a birder).
Thank you for the give-away opportunity and happy holidays!
I love stitching a stem stitch. Once you get started it seems you can go on forever. And it makes beautiful, graceful lines.
Satin stitch because it is so good for filling all sorts of areas
I love the feather stitch! I have used it many times; on repaired quilts, to anchor weak seams on antique quilts, to decorate edges of quilts, just to name a few things I’ve used it on. Its a great stitch to do a straight line or easily curve. And, its sew much prettier than just a straight stitch.
The stitch I would use forever is the backstitch or maybe an outline stitch. I am a surface embroidery person and I just enjoy that slow manipulation of the threads!
Love, Love, Love your site, your information, your love of embroidery that you share with all of us!
The stitch I would choose, if limited to just one for the rest of my stitching life, would have to be the Stem Stitch. It’s versatile and beautiful. I got my love of embroidery from my Grandmother. In her later years, she embroidered every day. Always busy with something, and she did everything in stem stitch. I treasure the time she took to teach me, and the embroidered linens she left us.
Outline stitch as it’s flexible around curves, you can whip it, etc.
I think I would spend my time perfecting wrapped stitiches. Mostly cresting textured line designs. Interesting to contemplate!
If I had to pick one stitch that I would use in stitching, it would have to be the satin stitch. The satin stitch is a fill stitch and I have found that it’s a relaxing and fun stitch.
French knots I love them!
The chain stitch – I like doing it and it’s versatile
The changed it there is always so much you can do with the change stitch and also the front’s not
If I could only do one stitch I would do Palestrina stitch because it’s so much fun. I just really enjoy stitching it!
Cross ❌ stitch! I love the symmetry, the geometry, the outcome! I don’t know what to do with everything I’ve finished, but I love doing the stitch…relieving stress one stitch at a time. I don’t have to think about the mechanics of the stitch, just the changing colors and shapes.
I would stitch french knots. I LOVE them.
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why?
Since my favorite technique is counted cross stitch, the one stitch I would do is cross stitch. It’s very relaxing to do and can be very interesting when using 2 stands of different hues or colors to create nice color blends.
Personally, I enjoy trying out different stitches. As a left- handed sewer, I use lots of reference materials. These cards look great! If I had to choose one stitch, it might be a chain. I enjoy doing them.
I would stitch French Knots for the rest of my life. Why – because I cannot do them successfully. My goal is to perfect a technique, any technique, to be able to do these with confidence! Before my demise. My mother always stitched them for m e on my projects. But Mom has been gone a long time now and I need to learn this!!!!
I suspect that I would choose stem stitch because it can be used so many ways and can be embellished
Just one!?! Have to be stem stitch. It’s fast, it’s easy, it’s perfect for lines but it can also be used as a filling stitch (for moderately-sized spaces, anyway).
My favorite stitch is the feather stitch. It can be manipulated so many ways—wavy for vines with added beads or French knots for flowers, dainty detail on a cuff or along a hem, just so many fun ways to embellish or decorate. Best of all an easy little stitch to do.
If I had to stitch just ONE stitch, it would probably be the good old cross stitch. It would be a hard choice between that and the mosaic stitch.
Needless to say, I stitch mainly counted thread on linen. Please, may I have 2 stitches….and a variation….
So fun,
L
If I was going to stitch just one stitch, it would be long and short satin stitch. I could use be one strand of Floche and make everything from fur to trees to flowers!
This is a hard question. There are some stitches I really enjoy doing like the herringbone. I love the way it looks using 3 or 4 shades of the same color. But, if I could do only 1 stitch, it would have to be cross stitch.
I would be so excited to receive this book, as I love to explore new stitches.
I love learning all the different stitches
What a fun idea for a stitch reference!
I love most of the stitches (not quite all 😉 but my absolute favorite is Fly stitch. It can be a beautiful line stitch, a lacy filler stitch, a solid filler stitch, and a solitary stitch. It catches the light so beautifully especially around curves. That’s the one I would pick if I only had one….
PS Love your website! I teach surface embroidery and recommend your site to my students.
My favorite stitch to use if I could only use one is the Palestrina Stitch.
The St. Birgitta stitch is my favorite! I remember how proud I was of myself when I could finally keep my cording in a straight line. Definitely an light bulb moment for me.
The “one in a lifetime stitch” for me would be the blanket stitch. It is versatile, both decorative and utilitarian and in my opinion would cover the most needs if I only had one option for a stitch to use.
Ohh, good question. I think it would be blanket stitch. There is so much that can be done from couching, securing edges, binding front and back together to a host of needle lace stitches.
Straight stitch. Can be delicate and airy or big and bold. If enough tiny ones are put in a row any shape can be achieved. It’s versatile!
If I was doing embroidery it would be the satin stitch. You can change the size and angle of it to accommodate many shapes.
If I could only do one stitch for the rest of my life….it would be the button hole stitch. You can use it for applique to hold pieces down and also use it as a decorative stitch in embroidery. You can custom the stitch too.
I think I would like to do the chain stitch if I had only one stitch to do for the rest of my life. Just because I like making it. Plain and simple.
These cards would help me up my game from what Grandma taught me.
I appreciate your talents and PATIENCE!
Roberta
Oh Mary this is a hard one…Just 1 stitch for the rest of my life! I love them all.
Currently, my selection would be blanket stitch because of the wonderful and different effects, textures, needle lace, and finishing of edges it creates. Using the variability of thread thickness, I could easily get lost with this stitch.
Merry Christmas and thank you for the lovely give aways
My one stitch would be stem stitch. It’s easy, stitches up quick, goes around curves, and can be embellished.
Stitching just ONE stitch? It would be the buttonhole stitch. It’s endlessly variable, with lots of uses, from edging around a simple felt ornament to making flowers to creating an abstract piece of art.
One stitch is tough, would have to go with stem stitch. Very versatile.
I think a chain stitch which can be so very versatile – single chain for flower petals or leaves, multiple for stems, layered close together,for different types of structure, trees, etc. Happy Holidays!
Only ONE STITCH! How apocalyptic!!
Well, I just learned the “Nun’s Stitch” and if I could only stitch one, this one would keep my fabric from fraying, so I suppose that’s very useful! 🙂
These cards would be great for me. I am still learning stitches — THANK YOU!
If I could use only one stitch, it would be the stem stitch. With it you can stitch almost anything, and it is fun ean easy to do.
If I could only stitch one stitch, it wouldn’t be backstitch! I think I’d choose split stitch, because it’s such a great stitch – it’s uniform, good for outlining or filling, and hides mistakes well.
Runners up would be stem stitch and french knots. But not matter what stitch it was, I think it would be so hard to only stitch one stitch forever!
Hello. I think my forever stitch would be the buttonhole stitch….but I also love making French knots. Happy stitching.
Cross stitch – will take me several lifetimes, though, to get all the ones done I want!
For some reason, I LOVE the lazy daisy stitch! I could do them all day. Just taught my daughter how to do them too. Thank you for the giveaway, I love your blog.
If only one stitch…I think it would be the fly stitch. It can be individual or in a line, layered for different effects, or additional thread laced through.
My one forever and only stitch would be the stem stitch . It is versatile and nice looking. But oh, it would be so difficult to do only one stitch forever!?!?
My go to stitch is the split stitch. It is easy, versatile and I find myself returning to it often.
Wow, which one stitch for the rest of my life? That is a hard question. I’ll venture my answer as the chain stitch, being it is very versatile. Goodbye to all those other stitches I love so much.
I love stitching the feather stitch. That would be my life stitch because it can make so many beautiful things.
The chain stitch. It can be thin or thick. It can be used to cover a full area or just be a line. It can be worked in any direction.
Hands down the Hungarian chain stitch. I do a lot of quilting applique and this chain has enough heft but is not fussy.
One stitch would be very limiting, but I think I would have to go with the stem stitch because I could make it short or long, skinny or fat, depending on the thread used. I could also use it for outlining or text.
I think my favorite might be the stem stitch. It is easy and it is very versatile, but mainly, I love the way it lays on top of the fabric.
Thanks! I need this – just starting my journey! The Outline Stitch is my favorite go to! This is my choice if I only had one – very adaptable!!
Back stitch, so versatile
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, it would have to be the (ugh, choices…)the blanket stitch, with the back stitch coming in at a close second. I love the blanket stitch because it can add so much to a simple piece and has many variations, but the back stitch is just so easy.
If I could use only one stitch it would be daisy stitch because that is one stitch I have no trouble mastering, lol.
One stitch for the rest of my LIFE! Boggles the brain! It would have to be something incredibly intricate so I don’t get bored so but then it would be beyond my ken if I get any more daft then I already am, soooo something simple that I can do forever! Okay, but then that might be like a prison sentence of solitary confinement so…
Okay, Mary. I’m stumped. I can’t sign away my stitching life so blithely even for those cards!! Ugh. What a wimp I am
I love the Bukhara Stitch. It is known by many names including the Rumanian Stitch (sic).
Coming from other parts of the world – in this case Uzbekistan and Romania – it reminds me that embroidery is a worldwide phenomena.
It is a connection to people from other times; from other places.
It makes me glad.
I would use the chain stitch. I can outline with it and use it for a filler. I can make them long or short and they show texture.
I think I would pick feather stitch. It has many variations — single, double, etc. It can be straight or curved. I did a crazy quilt with only feather stitch.
If I could only use one stitch I would choose daisy or chain stitch. This stitch is fairly versatile, I an use it solo, in a chain ( straight or wavy), filled, clustered, woven, short or long, thick or thin and probably more ways to discover especially if it’s my only stitch.
I would use the cross cross Hungarian stitch. It is my favorite! Fun to stitch and easy to compensate!
Very boring I’m sure but your basic X!
The LAZY DAISY!
I create lots of floral pieces and I love the mileage I get by using the lazy daisy stitch in a variety of colors, lengths, clusters and colors. It’s a simple, forgiving and versatile stitch that adds a lot of punch and texture throughout bouquet designs.
Having purchased a kit from you, I found hours of satisfaction in many of the stitches, but the lazy daisy was like an old friend: unfussy and familiar!
If I had to stitch one stitch for the rest of my life, I think it would have to be the buttonhole/blanket stitch. It is a really versatile stitch and I think you’d still be able to be fairly creative with it.
Thanks for the opportunity to win the deck of stitch cards.
Gosh! That’s a tough one. I love the chain stitch AND the stem stitch!!! I guess it would have to be the stem stitch. It creates such a lovely outline.
I would pick the stem stitch. It is simple but has a lot of flexibility.
But honestly who could only use one type of stitch!
I think I’d do the stem stich because I can do curves and outlines fill in with it cross hatch and probably more once I started going.
Without question, the long and short stitch.. I just love the way it looks – the softness of it and the realism of it in flowers, foliage, butterfles, etc. The blending of the grades of colors especially.
Merry Christmas Mary!!
I like satin stitch and blanket stitch!
As a relative newcomer I’m not sure I could chose just one stitch at this time. I’m thinking of making up a stitch journal for next year maybe after it is completed I’ll be better placed to chose just one stitch. Ask me again this time next year. LOL
Might sound funny, but I would choose plain old straight running stitch. You CA do so much with it if you use your imagination: borders, sashiko patterns, straight stitch flowers, and lots more.
If I only had one stitch to use forever more, it would have to be the stem stitch. I can use it as an outline and if needed a filler. Thanks for the chance to win! Merry Holidays to every one.
Oh, that’s just crewel!!! (sorry, sorry…)
For me, it’d have to be the so versatile satin stitch. I kind of feel like that’s cheating, so my second answer would probably be stem stitch. For whatever reason, most of my stitches like to turn into stem stitches anyway.
It would be a back stitch. It’s the stitch I do best! LOL!
My favorite stitch is the stem stitch because I had to practice it so much to get it perfect that now it’s my go to every time. It reminds me of my grandma telling me to do it again and better this time! LOL
What an awesome idea! If I could only stitch one stitch for the rest of my life, I would choose the straight stitch as I could do so much with it from outlines, to letters to Kantha to satin, etc.
What a brilliant idea!! Wow!!
Well that’s a hard question to answer, I use the blanket stitch a lot I like how it gives a nice finish but also using th bullion for dimension
Crossstitch for sure. It can be large, small and crossed in different ways.
Out of hundreds of great stitches, I needed to pick just one. That took some thinking. It would be the Stem stitch. It is the basic stitch for all of those T towels and other applications. It’s relaxing. Unlike so many other stitches, it can stand alone. That is it ~ the Stem stitch or Outline stitch, depending if you are hold the thread above or below your stitch line – for me it is usually above, stitching with Brazilian “Z” twist thread or if below – “S” twist it is an Outline stitch – does that count as 2
Wow, only one stitch? That might mean I would stitch less, just out of boredom. But, if I had to pick one, it would be Mountmellick stitch. Done well, it looks so pretty.
that is a tough choice. I choose long and short stitch. A lot of my embroidery work is using that stitch. I like how the colors blend together and create flowers, leaves and so many other things!
If I could only use one stitch for the rest of my stitching life it would be fly stitch. (I think! I also love blanket and feather stitching. I see a theme here…) Thanks for letting us know about these card decks. I have several stitch resources but I can see how handy these would be.
I get so much inspiration from Mary Corbet’s daily emails! If I had to chose just one stitch, I think it would be satin stitch, because I love crewel projects as well as other items. Satin stitch creates many different textures, if you use some imagination.
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching just ONE stitch: maybe as satin stitch. There’s something very satisfying about filling in a leaf or petal with a series of even straight stitches.
The stitch cards would be a nice addition to my stitching tool box … fingers crossed!
Happy holidays to you and yours,
Nancy Staab
I love bullion stitch but probably use stem stitch the most
Either stem stitch or back stitch, you can get such consistent stitches with either one and they move along quickly.
My all-time favorite stitch is the stem stitch. It was one of the first stitches I learned, and the one I use most often. It is a lovely looking stitch, and so versatile. It can be used for straight lines or curved. It can fill large spaces beautifully, and has different appearance based on the number of threads, stitch length, etc. I use it more than straight, back, or split stitches. I use it on every project in some way.
My favourite stitch is stem stitch. It is so easy, looks so good, and is so useful
I love the long and short stitch. It is endless what you can do with that stitch.
Especially how you can “paint” with the stitch.
Thanks
Denise
I think I would do Blanket Stitch for my one and only. Then I could do wool applique and penny rugs, and it’s such a peaceful stitch to do. Love the stitch deck!
This is a hard question. Chain stitch because you can make all kinds of designs with it and also make a single chain for a lazy daisy stitch to make flowers.
Chain stitch!
Cross Stitch – enjoy doing the stitch and it can be used many ways.
Blanket stitch. I like to go around appliqué pieces and you can appliqué on almost anything!
If I could only work one stitch for the rest of my life, it would no doubt be the stem or outline stitch because I love the way individual stitches seem to form a decorative twisted line. It is an easy stitch to work and even looks good when you stitch rows of it side by side.
I would do the chain stitch because that always comes out nice for me. Also you can add different colors with out a problem.
My one stitch would be chain stitch. It’s very versatile and can be used as an outline or by doing rows side by side you can fill in larger areas. It’s a very pretty stitch.
Hi Mary, a stitch deck sounds like a fun tool to vary one’s projects! If, however, I had to forgo variations and spend the rest of my stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, I would choose stem stitch. It is a beautiful, versatile stitch that can be used for image outlines and lettering.
Stem stitch can take you anywhere with grace or strength or delicacy. And if I could only use this one, I hope I’d eventually get good at it.
Thanks for sharing Christmas with us in this way!
If I had to spend the rest of my stitching life stitching just one stitch I would gladly be stitching Stem Stitches. I LOVE stem stitching, it can be used for some many shapes and effects and I just love the whole process.
(GROAN) Just ONE??? The fun is in the variety!
Ok, I think it would be the stem stitch since later it could be whipped, laid side-by-side to fill in, beaded, etc. You can always “fancy up” the basic stitches but the fancy stitches can’t be used for basic purposes. And there you get variety with just one stitch!
back stitch – it’s easy and fast
Congrats to Sue! Hope you have fun with the kit!
As for this question…it’s tough but I’d choose stem stitch. It’s so versatile: a line stitch, a filling stitch, it takes corners and curves well, and you can shade with it. And I know how to stitch it, thanks to your videos! I’m not usually a fan of video tutorials, but yours are extremely helpful.
Thank you for hosting these give-aways, Mary!
Elaina J in Ohio
My favorite stitch is the fantastic and flexible stem stitch. I use it to outline and fill in areas. It can be used in lettering, making circles and framing areas. For different looks I use it in different sizes and with different size and textures of threads. Hooray for the Stem Stitch!
French knots. I have not yet mastered a really good french knot but once I have they lend themselves to so many things. Hydrangas, Queen Annes lace, lavender etc.
They look wonderful stitched on tulle for wild flower designs and are so useful for embellishing anything – buttons, flower centres, clothing, embroideries….. while it would be limiting to stick to one stitch (assuming a straight stitch does not count with a straight stitch and french knots you could make the most wonderful designs.If only a straight stitch well it goes without saying that you can do anything with that just by how you arranging the stitches into crosses, diamonds stems etc and also do kantha and sashiko and boro I think straight stitch is a bit of a cheat to select!
Mary ,
You are always my first port of call when I need to know how to sew a stitch .
I know I have posted a thank you before for your website and how to’s.
The stitch deck looks like a better way to carry stitch instructions rather than my book.
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why?
Straight stitch because I can use it on so many projects and by varying it a bit, I can still make it look different.
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching one stitch it would be cross stitch. It is so versatile and there is a design for everyone. Designs can be reproduction samplers through to modern day designs. They can be something small enough to fit into a piece of jewellery to large enough to be a piece of homemade artwork on your wall. Worked in a multitude of colours or just one, plain or variegated. Worked on plain white or hand dyed fabric. Worked on the count of fabric that best suits you. Fun for all ages.
Thank you so much for all the knowledge and experience and goodness you give to others!
Bonjour et merci pour cette question. Si je devais choisir un seul point ce serait le point de feston parce que je peux l’utiliser de beaucoup de façons : Pour assembler 2 pièces de tissus, pour une belle finition qui variera selon la couleur utilisée, pour la décoration comme un filet, pour des fleurs, etc… C’est vraiment un point que j’affectionne beaucoup!
I think these cards are the neatest thing!
The blanket stitch.
Looks to be soooo handy. How generous you are to offer these chances to up our stitching games.
For general purposes, I would choose the vertical encroaching gobelin as it makes beautiful fur or flowers, but my true favorites are the “twisty” stitches such as Jessica and Amadeus, etc. I am a needle pointer and those are just so much fun to do.
Those cards look like they would be super helpful and fun! I love your site. So many great projects like the mitten.
If I had to use just one stitch for the rest of my life, it would probably be French knots! I don’t know why, but I love making them. It fascinates me that they “work”, and I am always very satisfied when I use them. But I don’t know how useful they would be for creating an overall image… oh well!
Chain stitch and variations is my favourite stitch to do.
I would chose cross stitch, because it easy, but it’s very versatile. It is user-friendly because can be used with many kinds of ground cloth and all types of thread to achieve a myriad of effects.
My stitch of choice to use forever is the stem stitch—even for fills. All fibers work—even mixed fibers.
It would be outline. It can be made with different threads and length.
I am entering the giveaway and my answer is the Satin Stitch as it is so meditative.
I forgot to answer the question! I love the split stitch for some reason. It can be used with so many projects that “fancier” stitches would overwhelm. Again, thank you for your generosity.
If I had to choose one stitch, it would have to be the outline stitch. I could use it to create intricate patterns and designs – like pen and ink drawings!
just love long arm cross stitch. It stitches up quickly and looks so elegant. I fid it very versatile for borders and dividing lines. Looks so elegant.
I might pick the ladder stitch it holds all sorts of things together.
J Luther
I would choose the dreaded spiral trellis stitch. It is one I struggle with and have yet to master. I love the look of a perfectly finished spiral trellis and it is my goal to be able to create one myself. I have watched videos, had one on one help but I’m just not there yet. If I could only do one stitch I couldn’t leave this out because I need to master it.
I would use the outline backstitch. It is fast fun and great for cute drawings to make quilt blocks!!!
One stitch: Portuguese Knotted Stem. It has that extra bit of interest but is just as straight forward as a plain stem stitch (another favorite.) Plus, the wraps and arc of the stitch can be manipulated to a fair degree so you’d still be able to create visual and textural variety in a piece.
I think I use the blanket stitch a lot but the stem stitch is pretty too.
The cards look so interesting.
I think I would prefer the straight stitch to do for all eternity because it is so versatile…
If I could use one stitch for the rest of my stitching life it would be the back stitch. I would choose it because of all the ways I can use it. Also, it is the most natural stitch for me to do.
My favourite stitch is blanket stitch which can be used for so many things. All my 2024 Christmas decorations have just been completed with blanket stitch. You can join and finish felt appliqué and it always looks neat.
I’m not able to do a lot of things these days,so I would be doing a lot of backstitch mixed with Holbein. Missed the question first time round!
my favorite stitch is the french knot. if that was the only stitch i could do i think there are many interesting things to create. it seems almost like a challenge to see just what could be created with the french knot. hmmmmm.
thanks Mary for sharing all your knowledge with us.
I love queen stitch! It is such a beautiful stitch!
I would use the stem stitch. It is so versatile. It can be used so many ways.
Happy Holidays Mary!
Love your informative and cheery website! So full of inspiration, tips, and fun goodies.
My forever stitch would be the spider web rose. I enjoy watching the depth grow as it’s stitched round and round. It’s a fun and easy way to add relief to a project.
Warm regards,
Cammy
Love Needle n Thread. It is really the best!
The stitch I would elect to use forever if I could use just 1? I would say I would probably say stem stitch. You can do just a single strand, you can repeat row next to row to fill spaces. You can elevate it, you can shade with by changing colors, etc. The list of how it can be used is endless!
If I could only use one stitch for the rest of my life it would be the satin stitch — but a clean, sharp one, which I don’t currently know how to do well. I embroidered a good bit as a young person, but now my interest in embroidery is rekindled as we enter retirement. I have many much-loved books with terrible covers. I want to recover them using fabric and embroidery. I want to learn a good satin stitch for the titles on the spines.
If I could only do one stitch for the rest of my life it would be the buttonhole stitch. Why? Because it is so versatile and thanks to your videos on YouTube I have tried several variations.
I would love to win that deck of cards.
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why?
My favorite stitch is the bullion knot. I did my first (and only) crewel piece… it was a throw pillow, from a kit… in about 1973! I remember there were a lot of flowers that were made with the bullion knot, and I loved doing them and how lovely they looked when completed.
For me, I think it would be the chain stitch as it is versatile with different variations.
If I had to choose one stitch, I would choose stem stitch.
Hm… I think running stitch? It would allow me to still learn sashiko (as I’m planning), and if I’m allowed to be “clever” I could go back in the opposite direction for reversible blackwork embroidery (technically double running stitch). But gosh it would be limiting! I’m glad we don’t actually have to stick to just one.
Chain Stitch! Depending on variations in how to stitch it, and variations in floss or thread, you are availed of many, many different looks. Besides, I just really like the way it looks.
It isn’t easy to select just one stitch, but I suppose I would say cross-stitch as I have more charts and fabric that can be used with cross-stitch than other techniques. Of course, most of my cross-stitch charts also have other stitches, especially those from Jane Greenoff. 🙂
My favorite lifetime stitch would be the running stitch as I am a hand quilter as well as an embroidery stitcher.
That is a tough one but if I must choose one it would be bullion stitch. Very versatile, can create flowers and garden critters and people and, and, so much more.
Only one stitch? What a difficult question. I guess, if only allowed one, I would choose the stem stitch as it is one of the most versatile stitches. You can use it to outline a picture, layer it side-by-side to fill a space, add flourishes to enhance it. So, while it is definitely not my favorite, I would choose it.
Those card decks look great. Whoever gets them will be a lucky person.
Thank you for the opportunity.
Ideas and tutorials are great! Beautiful designs!
I love the blanket stitch.
My must have stitch would be the chain stitch, but I also want to use it as a fill stitch and maybe break it to use as a daisy stitch. Nope…got to have them all!
The Stem Stitch because it is so versatile. It can be use as a single line, curves nicely or multiple rows of Stem Stitch, packed tightly, can fill an area.
The one stitch for a life time would be the queen stitch. For fill for flowers for a decorative border
I love doing french knots. No two are exactly alike, very much like snowflakes. They all appear the same from a distance but close up each is different.
Stem stitch as it is easy and elegant
I always love your posts
Satin stitch is my very favorite. It’s so simple and yet being precise as a goal is very satisfying. It’s beautiful with padding.
I mostly do cross-stitch, so that would probably be the real answer, but I love the look of satin stitch. Provided the question gives us enough time to perfect a new stitch before having to use one stitch the rest of our lives, I would go with satin stitch.
My favorite stitch is basketweave. I know that sounds like a quick and easy response but it did require some consideration. I love almost every needlepoint and embroidery stitch. The crossed stitches like smyrna crosses and leviathan are especially satisfying. It gives me great satisfaction to use the linear stitches, backstitch, split, and stem. I love the beauty created with long and short stitch shading. However, basketweave is where it all started for me and it always evokes such good memories of being taught by my grandmother and stitching together for hours in quiet, real, relaxation. Something not always easily found. Basketweave provides the smallest in detail and color and results in the most solid, stable piece.
I would use straight stitch, because I think it would be versatile enough to allow me to stitch almost anything I wanted to.
I think my favourite stitch would have to be cross stitch, as there are all sorts of things one can do with it, including half, quarter and three quarter stitches.
Have a happy holiday!
It would have to be a small stitch to get the necessary details. So, that means 1×1 cross or a tent/basketweave stitch. Given those 2 options, I would narrow it down further to tent/basketweave because it should work up faster and I could stitch more pieces. I love the variety of stitches we do have and am happy that I don’t have to limit myself to just one.
The chain stitch!! Always find it enjoyable!
Which stitch would I choose as the one and only best stitch? I love feather stitch. It has so many variations possible. You can vary the stitch angle or length or direction. It’s a terrific stitch for a simple line of decoration or for the base stitch for seam lines in crazy quilting.
I would choose silk shading as my forever stitch. I love the variety of effects it can provide
That’s a good question! If I had to pick one stitch it would be the cross stitch. I love all types of embroidery including needlepoint and cross stitch. But if I could only use one stitch it would be the cross stitch so I could stitch the wonderful charts and patterns that are out there. Thanks for making me think about this. It was a fun exercise!
I would choose silk shading as my forever stitch. I love the variety of effects it can provide. Thanks
And, Happy Holidays! Congratulations on your store. Continued success. Would love to visit you some day from Philadelphia.
I’d use long-and-short stitch. Because you can – well – color with it. I love to color with thread. <3
If I could only use one stitch, it would probably be a stem stitch. (It would not be a satin stitch, for sure!!). Stem stitch looks good on its own, it can be used for filling, it can curve or be straight, and it can be short or long. Pretty versatile !
French knot – if you think of it as a dot on a page…there’s a lot you can do with dots!
The stitch I could do forever with be long and short stitch. I love how it looks when completed and it just blends in so beautifully.
Betty B.
One stitch for the rest of my life? Running stitch it is! I can play with it, think with it, relax with it, hold things together with it, meditate with it. And when I grow old and perhaps find my finger dexterity, eyesight and memory are no longer what they were, I imagine I can always go on happily running thread through cloth.
I would do the fly stitch- see- I really need the card stitch
I guess it would probably have to be cross stitch-I do so much of it!
I’m particularly fond of buttonhole stitch!
Oh my goodness – this is hard to decide! I think if I could only do one stitch for the rest of my life it would be stem stitch. Why? It’s a fairly easy stitch to do but versatile enough to give you lots of different looks.
I love Outline Stitch! It is smooth flowing, no interruptions such as moving needle position, pulling threads, wrapping threads, etc. It is versatile, also. Merely changing stitch length makes such a difference. The stitch works well for almost all designs – curved, strait, meandering, angular, even filling. If being tortured by limiting stitches to just 1 (!), stem stitch would be the one.
(What a clever question to answer to be able to receive a whole collection of stitches! 🙂 )
My favorite stitch is the Lazy Daisy stich.
I love how sweetly it makes flower petals and leaves!
The stitch I would use is the backstitch. It can be used for redwork, it can go around curves and corners easily, it can be used to write words. It is very versatile and easy on the hands and wrists, and can be used by even young children. It was the first stitch my mother taught me, 60 years ago.
This seems to be a great collection!
If I had to use only one stitch, I would use the chain stitch. I have seen beautiful work on Swedish caps using the tiniest chain stitch ever! Then you can make large diasies and loops and such. Or, do them as lines. Anything but French Knots!!!! Debi F
What a wonderful idea having embroidery cards to select from. Thank you so much for your wonderful site. I am always learning something. I enjoyed stitching the kit I purchased for the lovely tape measure. The project has a special spot in my display cabinet.
Cheers
Anna Clyburn
Canada
Stem stitch, hands down. I love the stem stitch. I even go back around the stitch because it makes a nice, solid line.
I love the palestrina stitch. It is so versatile and I have used in many projects as both a trim and a border.
Cheers
Anna Clyburn
Canada
Stem stitch is my go-to stitch, so pretty and useful! My goal for 2025 is to expand my stitches by actually focusing on embroidery instead of just embellishing with them.
I love sorbello stitch, even though I think it’s mostly used in cross stitch projects.
If could only do one stitch, I’d choose outline stitch, as it is used so often, although my favourite stitch is a daisy stitch!
If I could only stitch one stitch, I would choose French knots because I’m confident I can do them and they are versatile and look great!
The one stitch I would chose is the stem stitch. It’s an interesting stitch that covers quite a few designs. It is an interesting stitch when used with variegated threads.
The plain back stitch is great for so many things. I do like to make the double cast on stitch for flowers
If I can only pick one stitch, it would be the chain stitch – because it’s easy, it can be used as fill, as outline, as a stand-alone stitch, and it is more decorative than a straight stitch.
Cross- stitch! It is the first stitch I learned. There are so many variations of it. I love the long-armed cross stitch for the braided effect on edges. It also can create very realistic images. I use a lot of different stitches as I like variety, but I always have a cross-stitch project on the go for when I just need something relaxing.
Only 1 stitch?!! I immediately thought of CHAIN Stitch … so many options – straight, curved, laced, doubled, detached, crossed. Yes, definitely CHAIN stitch – I could stitch with that for the rest of my life.
I guess if I had to pick only one stitch it would be the chain stitch. It’s very versatile.
What a horrible thought!! I think maybe it would be straight stitch – I can use it for dressmaking, boro, sashiko, quilting, and fake a lot of embroidery stitches!?
If I could only use one stitch for the rest of my life I would choose a stem stitch. As a spinner, knitter, weaver (and a wanna be embroiderer) I find that I use a stem stitch, or variation there of, in much of my handwork. Be it hemming/binding woven placemats, sewing together knitting and there is always mending etc. My thought is I can “color” with thread instead of crayons. Merry Christmas Mary.
Thank you,
Sheila
Stem stitch. It is versatile and makes nice edges to other stitches.
I have long used and am very comfortable with the Backstitch. As a self-taught embroidery enthusiast, my early thoughts were the backstitch and French knot were the only stitches I needed! Since those early years and especially after following Needle ‘n Thread, I have learned the esthetics of many styles of embroidery. I still fall back to my favorite, the Backstitch, for the basics of my projects.
If I had to stitch just one stitch for the rest of my life, it would be French knots because they’re so versatile and I love the way that they look. Thank you for offering this great giveaway!
Only one stitch for the rest of my live would be difficult, thankfully most can be altered to look different and there are so many different threads it could be interesting to change it up. I do love the chain stitch.
Thank you for this, wishing everyone the best of luck and a very merry season, whatever you celebrate.
Arlene
Cards would be a great way to find out about a stitch you’re not sure of. Easy to take with you!!
I enjoy the spider webs, but my favorite is couching. Have experimented with various materials to use as the “stuffing” in the couch—cotton balls, shiny plastic, and feathers.
The stem stitch would be my one stitch to have. Depending on threads you use it can have very different appearances!
I like the “Rice Stitch”. It is a fun to stitch and provides a little more texture to your piece depending on how many strands you use.
ONE stitch?!
Decisions, decisions.
My gut wants me to choose French knots, which I know so well, supply a built-in 3rd dimension and can be used to create intricate designs.
But my smart side wins out: I would choose straight-stitch, so simple and basic, it would offer me a lifetime of learning (a nice point, if I only get one stitch) and it has variety built in (stitch length, thread thickness, a bevy of ways to increase its bounty).
This is a hard one.
Button hole stitch ❤️
If I could only stitch one stitch for the rest of my life, I guess it would be a backstitch since that is one of the most basic and you can do a lot with it.
If I had to choose just one stitch, I would use the Quaker stitch. It is so much neater than a regular stem stitch. It makes beautiful lines that are so smooth. It’s my go-to stitch for outlining, stems, etc.
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching one stitch, I guess it would be the stem stitch — mostly because it is so incredibly versatile, one can use it to do almost anything.
A stem stitch! You can do many designs with it! Fast & fun!
It would be the fly stitch. I love crazy quilting. You can be a straight, curved also and beads, flowers, other stitches etc…
It’s always the basic cross stitch for me. I get into a calming place as I stitch.
I would choose the stem stitch as my one stitch. I find it very satisfying to see how well I can follow curves using it.
If I had to use just one stitch for the rest of my life I think it would be the stem stitch. It can outline and also be used as a fill.
I am not sure I could just do one stitch forever! But probably the blanket stitch.
I would spend my entire time embroidering French knots. They are so delicate and versatile and sophisticated. They remind me of more elegant times of the past.
Merry Christmas! I’d say it’s a tie between cross stitch and basketweave. Both are so monotonous and meditative.
I love doing colonial knots – that twirly movement of the needle produces a satisfyingly plump knot. I’ve loved them since I did my first candlewicking project and I often do them instead of french knots.
These would be great for outreach/beginner classes.
My go to stitch would be nobuko.
French knots; because of the dimension and they are cute
I would not want to live without the cross-stitch. It’s been my companion for over fifty years and part of oh, so many lovely gifts I’ve made for friends and family!
Hi,
A stitch for the rest of my life would be the stem stitch. The stitch is easy, can be stitched either long or short, variations on the stemstitch can be included within the stitch, shading is easily accomplished, it gives a good foundation for a padded applique, and the stitch can leave a beautiful sheen.
Best to everyone and Happy Hollidays
Marianne K. H.
cross stitch!!!! cause its easy and satisfying
I like the padded stitches because they add dimension to a project, giving it more interest.
I’m not sure if I answered this already or not — I really am not trying to enter the give-away twice!
But, if I had to do one stitch for the rest of my life, it would be the stem stitch because it is so versatile — it can be used it many, many different ways.
The Tent Stitch for needlepoint. It is incredibly versatile and can be used to create any pattern in shaded or solid colors.
The try to use the simple cross stitch when I can find it pre-stamped. My right arm is not able to move around to do all the stitches needed to complete most projects. I have arthritis in my right shoulder and goes don’t arm.
The cross stitch is very easy and not as tiring to do.
Thanks,
Cindy Thiessen
I love doing the French knots because they show so much texture. They add a pretty dimension to anything you are making.
One stitch? I love the Blanket Stitch. It’s simple and you can do a lot with it, and it reminds me of a blanket my Gramma had.
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching just one stitch it would likely be either cross stitch or split stitch.
Cross stitch has the advantage of having a multitude of existing patterns which allow me to know just how my project will turn out. The disadvantage is that cross stitch by itself does not allow for fine lines unless the stitches are really, really tiny.
Split stitches can be used for both fill and fine lines, worked in broad strokes or fine details, but there is a lack of patterns with floss and shading guidance. However as I can stitch most everything in split stitch, split stitch wins.
It would be the French knot. I never get it right and I love the way it looks on a needlework project.
If I could only do one stitch for the rest of my life I would choose the long/short stitch. Of course by definition I could cross my stitches, sew them backwards, and many short stitches could curve around into circles or other shapes. My many short stitches still have to have the ends secured and (Opps) the knot could end up on the wrong side.
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why? That would be Long and Short stitch (which so many people are afraid of!!!) because it offers endless possibilities of shading, is the basis for thread-painting, and I love the subtleties of color that can be explored!!
I really like bullions. They look complex but are rather easy with the right needle. They can be many lengths, curled or straight. Best of all they are fun!
Thank you for the Christmas contest and congratulations on your beautiful workspace.
Suzanne Blom
The blanket stitch , because it works with everything! ☺️
Only one?? Perhaps a stem stitch as it can be versatile, as a raised stem stitch is beautiful. It could also could be a Portuguese Knotted Stem Stitch. Yes. I guess the stem stitch. Sigh, still only one it is a hard choice.
If I could only use one stitch for all my projects it would be the daisy chain stitch. It is so versatile. Doubled up ( one stitch inside an already established stitch) or running a thread back and forth under each stitch changes the look of the line of stitches and can make a lovely presentation.
That’s so cruel! How could you possibly choose? I suppose if I could only use one stitch, it would have to be the running stitch. I think if I were stuck using just that stitch, I could still do some creative designing that could take it in so many different directions. I could stitch in the opposite direction, filling in the open spaces with more thread, I could stitch adjacent lines to fill an area, I could lengthen or shorten the stitch length to possibly generate curves, etc. It would be an interesting creative challenge to design something and force myself to use just that stitch!
I would have to say if I could only use one stitch it would be cross stitch. There are so many variations and you can use it in so many different types of needlework.
My favorite stitch is the blanket stitch. I just love, love, love it! I love it because it is sort of an outline stitch around objects. t take it even further, I even love it done by machine, but handwork is the most fun.
I would choose the running stitch so I could hand piece blocks
The stitch I would continue to use endlessly…would be the “blanket Stitch”.
My reason would be…it took me a very long time to conquer the stitch without measuring the width and distance of each stitch, when I finally was able to go forward without the measuring – it is so easy to stitch each stitch generally all looking the same. “Happiness”!
I think if I could only have one stitch it would be the straight stitch. You can do so much with just a straight line. It can go any way you want, it can fill a space, do shading, add texture, define spaces, build designs, what every you want.
The French Knot is a stitch that I thoroughly enjoy making. It’s versatile and ever so cute!
What a wonderful idea these cards are! Convenient, clear and clever. I would love to own a deck. This is also a great stocking stuffer for the stitcher you love. I gotta have this!
I would choose the chain stitch. I am finally good at it, I can do it without thinking and I can actually fix it when I screw it up.
I could probably do the Stem stitch a very long time, only one step and very versatile!
the stitch I love to do is the boullion. You can make such pretty things with it
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why?
I love the chain stitch and I could see myself very happy indeed to only be able to do this one stitch. I really want these cards, too. Why didn’t anyone think of them sooner?
Hi, I think I would go with Holbein or double running stitch. You can create an infinite number of patterns and you didn’t stipulate only one colour.
French knots done in masses is my favorite stitch because it can look like a textured painting with little knots and bigger knots, plus one can go back and do a bit more shading and toning if necessary.
If I had only one stitch to choose, I would do (and learn) how to do the satin stitch with silk threads. I grew up with a few “paintings of Oriental embroidered art, gorgeous and meticulously crafted. I deeply admire the skilled shading techniques achieved.
The embroidery cards are a great idea! I’d be thrilled to win them.
I could do french knots all day long! Love them.
Merry Christmas❄️
I’d choose cross stitch as my only stitch. It can make really, lovely pieces to be such a simple stitch.
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why? LOL! But really, I am curious… Gosh, I dont know, I am not a huge stitcher! I really want to get more into the decorative stitching to add to my knitted items!
I am hoping to be. Christmas winner! If not I will be a Christmas buyer!
Herringbone stitch is one of my favorites.
I never thought I needed to have help learning new stitches. But now after completing a small embroidery project, I realized that my stitch repertoire is exceeding limited. I need a tool to help me learn.
Stem stitch! If I had only one stitch I could have, that would be it. Why?? Because I could still mend clothes, make items, AND embroider. It would take quite some time to sew a hem, but do-able, then I could just keep on stitching!
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching just one stitch, it would be the stem stitch because it outlines, fills and has the prettiest rope-like appearance. I could embroider a complete work using only stem stitches. It is my worker-bee stitch.
I love doing chainstitch. I love that it can be both an outline and a filler. When used as a filler it gives a subtle texture which can give dimension to a piece. I find the stitch rhythmical to sit quietly and do.
These cards look great! They would be so easy to use and give me many more options. Thanks for the chance to win!
My stitch would be basketweave—than I could stitch needlepoint
Outline stitch…no question about it. It’s so versatile that your project will still be interesting even though you’ve only used one stitch.
I never thought I needed to have help learning new stitches. But now after completing a small embroidery project, I realized that my stitch repertoire is exceeding limited. I need a tool to help me learn. As for which stitch would I use if it was the only one I could use for the rest of my life, it would probably the stab stitch. I use it primarily because: (1) it’s easy and (2) you can use the stitch in different lengths to get a variation in the piece.
One stitch? I wouldn’t last too long, no matter which one. I got very tired of counted cross stitch once I discovered other ways to embroider. Does Hardanger count as a stitch? If so, that’s my choice.
Wow, what a question. But since you insist, I must say the Daisy stitch. It was the first I learned after the cross stitch. My Grandmomma taught me. I can do it consistently- a big plus for me. And it is just so cute. I would miss the stems, but I could add leaves and make a pretty close up bouquet.
I love the satin stich. It covers a lot of territory and is a beautiful stitch. I use it whenever it looks like an area to be covered in long or short stitches.
I really like the cards especially for us seeing challenged. Very clear instructions to the stitches! Thanks so much!
I would choose the plain cross stitch because it is a pretty stitch and can fit in most places quite simply.
I know this sounds crazy but I love doing the Queen Stitch!
I would like to use the chain stitch, it’s very versatile and fun.
If I could only do one stitch (this is oh so difficult) it would be cross stitch and all the variations of cross stitch – Italian, Greek, double spaced, long armed and all the rest
Gosh! ONE stitch ……forever??!!
Initially I thought of straight stitch and blanket stitch. I thought about how each might be used to great advantage- I mean ONE stitch forever??!
My conclusion is that if I were that limited for that amount of time (!) I would choose the simplest of all …straight stitch for versatility !
Oh the stem stitch is definitely my favourite stitch! You can do with a hoop or without a hoop. Sometimes I use it to fill an area but make it elongated. So versatile! Thanks, Mary!!!
I love your stitch demos. now there on cards is wonderful
I love featherstitch. It can be Christmas tree branches (or any other plants), or coral, or just a pretty embellishment on a seam line. It can be fancied up with beads or silk ribbon flowers. It’s my “go-to” stitch when I can’t decide what to do!
I love the daisy stitch. It’s so versatile and easy. With couching coming in a close second .
Back stitch I’m not sure i could live without it.
My favorite stitch, or combination stitch, is turkey work. I just love to see it puff our into flowers (especially dandelions) and bee’s bodies, and dog fur, and all sorts of cute fuzzy things !
Oh my what a killer of a question. Because I like fancy stitches! But……since I’m primarily a cross stitcher, I’ll go with the humble cross stitch. Although the mosaic stitch would be fun. Hmmmm
One stitch – that is a challenge. I think I choose buttonhole stitch because there are so many ways to vary it.
Well, I like using lots and lots of stitches! If I need to choose one I guess it would be the blanket stitch because it seems to be one of the most used stitches and it can be used to join pieces together for many projects!
My grandmother taught me to embroider. Our favorite stitch was the chain stitch.
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching stitching just ONE stitch, it would be stem stitch. It can be used for outlining, stems and filling.
Probably cross stitch since that is primal what I do, although I do like other counted stitches for variety.
Ah Mary, that’s a hard one. I would pick satin stitch because it’s pretty. You could use it most anywhere and maybe I could get good at it with so much practice. Lol.
God bless. Susan Coates
I do like your questions!
Boring as it might be to some, the humble stem stitch I could do forever. It is so versatile, so clean and crisp or full and plump with just a play with thread. It can be such a great filling stitch as well being a stitch that can be modified in so many ways.
Yup it’s the stem stitch hands down.
The one stitch I enjoy doing the most is French knots. I just love how they evolve into this perfectly round tiny button with a bit of a hole in the center (if I’m very careful). I’m not sure I’d want to do an entire piece filled with French knots but the thought is intriguing! Thanks, Mary!
I would do the Star Stitch, I love star, the way the look and I love sneaking one into a pattern
One stitch? What a difficult decision! Thinking of stitches I like versus ones I need to improve on (e.g. NOT Hardanger/cutting threads). I would have to say stem stitch due to its versatility.
If I only had ONE stitch, I think it would be running stitch. It can easily be varied into the other stitches I love! Running over something else is couching, turning and going back is like back stitch, two rows snugged together a bit can be an outline stitch. Gotta get creative!
I would stitch with the blanket stitch if I could only use one. It allows such a range of effects from solid to open in a line, in a circle, filling a shape, and so on.
I’m a beginner at embroidery, so I don’t have experience with a lot of different stitches. But with what I know, for my one stitch, I’d choose the backstitch for its versatility and ease. This stitch can be used for nice lines, curves, etc. For me, it’s also one of the more relaxing stitches 🙂
Running stitch as it’s simple no thinking about it, as long as it’s even you can make a variety of lovely patterns
I would spend the rest of my life using stem stitch. It’s so easy to do curly outlines and I’ve even used it as a filler for skinny/long areas.
I am a newcomer to hand embroidery with a hoop, but I am addicted to making Temari, which requires lots of hand work.
I would have to say satin stitch, as so many things can be made from it. I am excited to learn some Brazilian embroidery stitches soon.
Very hard to narrow down but I would have to choose the blanket stitch. It’s easy to embellish, making it more versatile. Luckily I don’t have to make that choice.
I do more needlepoint than anything else, so I’d go for Bargello – I find it so lovely and soothing 🙂
Backstitch – I use as a “pen line” to draw and write with thread on fabric.
I pick the french knot because it’s fun, and you can create anything using them.
If I could only stitch one stitch it would simply be the STEM Stitch. Its simple but I love how versatile, easy, and pretty it is when stitched in a single row or in multiple rows.
I love a French knot, very versatile and easily done
My favorite embroidery stitch is tramme, especially for needlepoint. Using two different types of thread makes it very versatile.
Oh I would do french knots! Just think of Seurat and all the art he created with dots!
The single stitch I would choose is the CROSS-STITCH.
It is simple yet infinitely usable to create many different patterns
Boring to many, but I love cross stitch. Maybe it is just being able to enjoy the colours of the floss and the picture emerging on the blank piece of linen, but I find it extremely relaxing … and satisfying!
Thanks for all you do to keep us informed of development in the world of needle arts!
Lost on a dessert island with only the stitch….the Palestina stitch. My favorite. Texture, many accent uses and keeps the mind sharp in doing a perfect execution. Thanks Mary C
My stitch of a lifetime would be the running stitch because it can be used in so many ways and different threads.
I would spend the rest of my days doing hardanger
Decidedly Buttonhole Stitch!
It is a most versatile stitch. It can be used in so many different ways creating a wonderful array of items and effects. I made a Tool Holder almost exclusively entirely using Buttonhole Stitch in a variety of ways.
I shall send a picture of the Tool Kit to your email address Mary.
I’m sending this info more for sharing than for the prize, esp as I live in Cape Town, South Africa. I’d like someone closer to you to win the prize, thank you!
Christmas give away x 2…
My favorite stitch to stitch forever is the chain stitch. Not very glamorous but versatile, simple, and cute
KT
Point de noeud car on peut avoir du volume et diversifier la grosseur
I would be perfectly happy to stitch chain stitch forever!!!!
I love chain stitch, so versatile and easy.
If I had to use just one stitch for the rest of my life I’d use the seed stitch. Overall I would think that would be the most versatile stitch because I can make it long or short and cover a large area.
I might go back to the one I first learned as a kid – the simple outline stitch.
If I could only stitch one stitch I would want to make sure it was versatile. I would have to pick the fly stitch. I could stitch it along a border or use it more freely throughout a piece for foliage.
1 stitch!!!??? Now Mary, that’s very unreasonable! LOL. I can’t think of a single thing other than x stitch that can be done (nicely, interestingly, etc.) with just one stitch. Now “favorite” stitch, maybe I could answer- I always enjoyed doing stem stitch. But how can I do my Hardanger with 1 stitch? How can I do my landscapes with one stitch? Ah, HA- I have it- the buttonhole stitch- in it’s many variations I can do my lace work! You’re forgiven for such an unreasonable question- this time. I’m can be difficult – I know…
I would do the running stitch. I have been doing slow stitching using this stitch and it is relaxing.
Outline stitch because I’m good at it and it’s flexible
Chain Stitch!! Because I find it so versatile and meditative and sooo many variations of that stitch provide many lines and textures in my fiber artwork.
Stem stitch without a doubt. It is the most versatile and works with many different patterns. It is a stitch that also works well with so many different threads and or weights of threads. And, even on a day when embroidery just isn’t coming out at its best, the stem stitch comes through.
My one stitch would definitely be the stem stitch. No matter how I stitch it, it always looks good. It makes my work look almost professional – that is, until I have to add a dreaded French knot…
If my stitch repertoire consisted of only one stitch, I would pick the versatile stem stitch. It’s a pretty and satisfying stitch to embellish many surfaces.
It is hard to pick just one favorite stitch. But, I would probably pick the bullion knot because they are so versatile.
Probably the stitch I would choose would be the chain stitch, because you can use it for almost anything – bunched together as a filler, outlining, and so much more 🙂
Happy Holidays!
The one stitch I would choose is chain stitch because it’s such an interesting and versatile stitch.
The lowly back stitch! Maybe a stem stitch if needed. The basis of many flights of fancy!
I think the outline stitch would be most useful.
If I were only to use one stitch I would choose the cross stitch because I could at least make pictures or patterns using different colors of cross stitches. I tend toward counted work so this would satisfy that desire as well. I’m glad we have more stitches to choose from though. What a boring world if there was only one embroidery stitch!
I believe it would be stem stitch. It is simple, versatile, relaxing and rhythmic. Thank you for sharing your creativity.
My favorite stitch is the chain stitch. I find it very versatile. I can use it to fill or even outline
I’m still a beginner and my favorite type is any type I can master. It’s so relaxing to sit and stitch.
I think I’d pick long and short stitch. So useful to fill in spaces simply and quickly, or it could be interesting on its own!
The stem stitch….because it´s meditative.
Blanket Stitch forever! I could applique, and finish blankets, of course! But also the artistic effect with flowers, stars, eyelets, visible mending etc.
If I only had to do one for the rest of my life it would be the blanket stitch. Because it’s a basic stitch and looks good on everything.
I left a comment this morning, but I don’t see it or any others. So I will try again. My favorite stitch is the button hole. I like for its versatility. There are many variations , some of which I learned from your Youtube videos.
I would love to win that deck of cards, such a great idea.
Feather stitch. it is one of the several stitches that I know where I can figure out how to get it started without looking at directions!
If I had to pick just one stitch, I guess it would be the outline stitch. Yeah I know it’s boring, but I think it would apply the most to the things I sew/draw/paint and stitch.
By the way, I think these cards are a FABULOUS idea!
Erica
I think it would be the French knot you can make so many pretty pictures with it
I would choose the backstitch because it is very versatile. It can be used to securely construct garments or accessories as well as to embellish them. The backstitch can be decoratively woven or whipped, and used as a filling stitch or even an outline stitch. Monograms can be made with the backstitch. Depending on the length of the stitch, one can make gathers with it, too.
Nice gift!
I think chain stitch would be my one and only if I had to choose – lots of flexibility and I enjoy it!
Assuming I’ll always have running stitch to keep seams together and darn the holes in my socks, if I could only have one embroidery stitch, I’d want chain stitch in all its many variations.
Thanks and I hope all of you stitchers out there have wonderful holidays!
Blanket Stitch, because I enjoy hand stitched appliqué, using both quilting cotton and wool.
If I didn’t do any other stitches, I would definitely choose to persist with counted cross stitch, the English method. I would include all types of cross stitch: 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, petite, Italian, long-arm, etc. Just love cross stitch!
If I could only do one stitch, it would be a straight stitch. Using different lengths I could embroider the world!
Only one stitch!! Learning new stitches is what is fun for me. I don’t think I could do it but I can make a billion bullion knots.
My favorite stitch is stem stitch. I love the way it look and it is a relaxing stitch to stitch.
My choice would be cross stitch, mostly because of the availability of patterns, and variety of threads and fabrics available.
I enjoy a good bullion knot stitch. It’s my favorite, but I’m not sure if I could limit it to just one!
Probably long and short, because even if I’m not that good, the stitch does look good, usually from a distance.
I would Bullion Stitch all the livelong day. Maybe I would perfect it, lol. And could sneak in an imposter French or Colonial knot now and again on a technicality!
Wow, this was a toughie! I think I would enjoy the Lazy Daisy as I could weave threads through it, embellish it with French knots and more Lazy Daisy stitches.
I’m thinking the chain stitch because of all it’s variations. How you can change the look by whipping a thread thought it. Or, opening it up and it becomes the ladder stitch. The most even curving, smooth fonts can be made with or without whipping. Then how about the detached as a cute edge. Then there is stitching it with twisted or straight loops.
It’s versatility makes it one of my most frequent go to stitch.
Thanks Mary for this Christmas give away! Merry Christmas!
My favorite go to stitch is the Stem Stitch. Great for outlining. I can’t imagine only using one stitch forever but I guess that would be it.
One stitch…it would be running stitch.
Sounds a bit basic and simple, but it can be used in so many ways. Close together, small stitches create so much texture (think Kantha stitching), varying the spacing gives an illusion of distance, thick, heavy threads anchor and ground a piece, it can be used to quilt pieces together. Straight lines, curves, circles, random changes in direction, overlaid on top of each other, any type of thread!
Rhythmic, simple, meditative. It’s a stitch I use a lot, in so many ways!
Tough question! I’m torn between stem and blanket, but I’ll go with stem … much more versatile!
I would choose the stem stitch because it is so versatile. It can be used for outlining and also filling.
If I could only ever do one stitch, I’d do the lazy daisy! I think it makes the easiest and cutest flowers, plus you can adjust the shape with some tension.
As boring as it sounds, if I could really only stitch one stitch it would have to be the cross stitch because it’s so versatile. There are lots of stitches I like better but they are a bit limiting on their own so cross stitch it is.
This is a hard choice—I like a variety! If I had to choose only one, I would choose cast-ons. They’re so versatile in stitching flowers, borders, drizzles and more, using all weights of threads.
Thank you for all the inspiration and education! Your lovely and varied embroidery gives us all happiness.
> If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why?
Perhaps Backstitch. I embroider fun animal and nature on tshirts. Mostly in outline. Backstitch gives an arty outline. Sometimes I make the stitch so close that it’s like a split stitch. I love French knots. To answer for only one stitch, I could still do my clothes and mending with only backstitch.
Hope to keep learning from you. Happy holidays
Chain stitch. Because it’s just so simple, looks neat , and requires little thought. 🙂
If I could do only one stitch for the rest of my stitching days it would have to be cross-stitch. Why? Because of the variety of patterns and thread available. And, I enjoy doing counted cross-stitch.
Merry Christmas
One stitch that I’ll never give up is the back stitch. This stitch is quite simple and in embroidering it I find it to be quite meditative and relaxing. This stitch is great for outlines, creating contrasts and to stitch letters.
Thank you, Mary, for your commitment to your newsletter! You have so much knowledge and creativity to share!
My stitch would probably be the x or cross stitch. So glad we don’t have a limit to stitches or projects.
I would use cross stitch because I can make almost any shape and size in cross stitch by varying the color and number of threads used in the needle and the number of ground threads I cross over. I can stitch numbers and letters in cross stitch as well. It’s a very versatile stitch.
I love the Buttonhole stitch. It’s so versatile and it is a beautiful stitch.
I guess it would have to be Cross Stitch. I love all forms of needlework but Cross Stitch is my favourite.
I would spend the rest of my life doing a chain stitch. I like the chain stitch because of all the different ways it can be used as an outline, filling, flowers, bugs, butterflies etc.
Chain stitch because it is easy and can be used in many areas.
The one stitch I am always using is the stem stitch. I think it is a good basic that can be used in single layered in multiple directions. But may that never happen. There are to many great stittches!!
Chain stitch! It was one of the first stitches I really liked when I first learnt to embroider at high school (back in the day when we did learn to sew at school!). I love that it is versatile and quick to stitch but also pretty. You can use it as an edge or outline but also use it to fill in an area, plus things like a lazy daisy flower, and there are endless variations – heavy, whipped etc.
I can’t imagine just one stitch for the rest of my life but if I had to I think it would be the beaded drizzle stitch. This stitch reminds me of a cartoon monster that holds its eyes at the ends of his hands. It makes me giggle. I would like to spend the rest of my life stitching and giggling!
Now that is a hard question to answer. While I enjoy all the stitches, my favorite just might be the lazy daisy. I love the name of it, I think it is a lot of fun to do and it has versatility. But I sure hope I never have that situation come up.
Backstitch, hands down. There’s just something so satisfying about taking a step back , yet moving forward at the same time.
French knots! They are the cutest thing ever!
I’m terrible at these types of questions….one stitch forever?! This is like trying to pick a favorite child. I guess maybe chain stitch because there are so many variations. But picking just one feels wrong.
The French Knot! I love this stitch for both fill and accents. It’s not unusual for me to even embellish machine embroidery with French knots. It is, bar none, my very favorite stitch.
Mary right off the bat I have to say satin stitch. I enjoy initials, monograms and flowers. I’m pretty sure that would still be my answer tomorrow.
Thanks for all you do!
I’d choose stem stitch. It’s very versatile. You can use it to outline, of course, but also as a filling stitch. And it’s easy and fun to work.
Probably backstitch, since I also do garment sewing and want my clothes to stay together!
Thanks for the opportunity to enter your giveaway
I think I would choose blanket stitch as there are so many variations one can use, and it can be layered up I to a dimensional look
Blessings
Maxine
Wow what a good question. I suppose I would stick with the basic cross stitch. I can do a lot with it and it is simple.
I love more complex stitches but at the end of a busy day simple cross stitch is the easiest to handle. If I ever retire my choice may change.
If I had to use just one stitch, it would be the satin stitch, because I could create thread “paintings.” By using satin stitch “brush strokes” and by using lots of different shades, colors, and unusual kinds of thread, along with various thread lengths for the satin stitch, why, I could create all sorts of lovely effects! It would be great fun, and this question has made me want to try it right after all the holiday hubbub dies down!
If only one stitch I would do the running stitch – you can layer it. Go in any direction and any length. You can shade with it, blend with it. Allows you to draw or color or free lance your design. A most flexible and useful stitch.
Chain stitch and all its variations is another good choice.
the cards are a wonderful idea! I would really benefit from using them. I think my favorite stitch would be the chain stitch. I find that one very easy to do.
Probably just a cross stitch because that’s the one I’m most familiar.
Lazy Daisies! So easy and happy looking! They can be petals, leaves or chains use your imagination. You can even alternate 2 colors on the same needle!
I like the whipped backstitch, because it looks like a candy cane or barber’s pole 🙂
If I had to do only one stitch it would be a blanket stitch because I use it the most when making gifts.
Chain Stitch because you can vary it is so many different aways: heavy chain, little fish by crossing the ends, open chain, feather stitch. You can couch another thread with it. such as a line of Japanese gold. Lines of chain make a good tree trunk., even stitching some of the row on top of another row. Chain can be beaded or left plain. You can even chain stitch without going through a fabric. Make ocean waves and smooth beaches. Chain is used in Stump work, white work, crewel and needlepoint.
This would be my take with me stitch.
It would be the Chain stitch. You could make it lite or heavy, improvise with threads, distance, configurations. It’s just a good basic stitch.
I love embroidery, needleturn applique, and wool applique. I did counted cross stitch years ago, and I’m thinking about doing it again. I loved stitching your needle book!
I love all stitches I just love how they make your project come to life. So hard to say which one is my favorite but I would have to say a feather stitch. Thank you for all your beautiful work.
Probably stem stitch. It’s beautiful!
I would choose the stem stitch to embroider the rest of my life. It is great for filling spaces and great for creating an outline. However I would certainly consider the chain stitch…
If I had to pick one today, it would be blanket stitch. It looks different depending on how you do it (thread weight, interlocking with itself, layering, etc.) and it’s useful in so many ways…
If I only could sitich 1 stitch for the rest-of-my-life, what would it be? I think it would be a lazy-daisy stitch. This simple sewing technique has a lot of decorative possiblitities, depending how you grouped the sewn petal. It could be used as a border or a filler or an accent. Definitely a lazy-daisy stitch.
What a brilliant concept – stitch cards! love it
Chain stitch.
I know it is very simple, but it can be tweaked in so many ways. Layer upon layer, and row upon row, it changes form to be quite beautiful like Suzani
The satin stitch aka the straight stitch as you can build quite a few other stitches with it if truly desired.
One stitch? probably Satin Stitch because it’s so versatile.
I would stitch the stem stitch because it can be used in almost any pattern and one can do curves with it.
If there were only one stitch, let it be the stem stitch. It can make both a straight line and a curved line look so beautiful.
That’s such a good question! Definitely stem stitch. It’s great for lines and for fill and is just so versatile.
Two sided Italian Cross Stitch…It’s versatile, can be a very solid background stitch. By pulling it tightly it gives a very lacy effect. Plus, it’s one I can always remember how to do!!!
I love the stem stitch. Stem stitch has “character.” It’s my favorite for at least two applications: One, I love to embroider flowers, stems, and leaves; stem stitch has substance.
Also, I like stem stitch for making letters. I’m about to finish a quilt—mostly machine sewn. I will use stem stitch to hand stitch a label—a personal touch to the quilt.
If I could use only one stitch, the versatile stem stitch would be that stitch.
I would do a chain stitch….its easy to do but looks more complicated.
My one forever stitch would be stem stitch; it is easy, versatile, and goodlooking. Thank you for the opportunity to win this neat stitch card pack, Mary. Merry Christmas to you and all of your readers.
Cross stitch would be my choice because of all you could do with it.
Oh boy! Another give-away! You’re too kind Mary! Hmmm, if I could only stitch one stitch for future work, I would chose the outline stitch. You can use it to do letters and stems, and stack them up to fill areas! Yep, outline stitch!
The stitch that I’ve use a lot over the years is the blanket stitch. I used it to outline (and help reinforce) the Christmas words and patterns on my felt Christmas tree skirt (now nearly 39 years old), I used it to outline the appliqued trees on my daughter’s quilt top (wedding gift), I’ve used it to stitch around the outside of the little felt forest critters (and also around areas like the wings on the owl) to hold the layers with the batting together that made up the banner I made for my first grand daughter and this year, I used it to attach the little name plate to her felt Christmas stocking. These are just a few of the ways this simple but elegant looking stitch has been used for my many projects over the years.
This is also versatile when looking at your video library of stitches and how this can be used around button holes and in other embroidery projects.
what a hard decision…I would probably choose the chain stitch because it has so many variations and is so useful for my embroidery (mostly on doll clothing).
I would choose the back stitch. You can use it in embroidery work, but it is great for making seams that do not pull apart. I like simple things and it is simple.
My Grandma taught me how to embroidery when I was 5, and I have taught myself to do Crewel, Cross stitch and how to sew clothes. At almost 80 I don’t do as much because the eyes don’t work as well.
I love your weekly newsletter and read it faithfully when it comes.
Mary J Barry
So useful for those rarely used but loved stitches. Happy Holidays!
My favorite stitch is the bullion. Crazy, right? I love that stitch.
Definitely the stem stitch! It’s useful and elegant-looking, and it lends itself to far more situations than merely leaf stems.
That’s a hard question! But after some thought, I’d have to say STEM STITCH because I can stitch anything with that stitch, either an outline or filled shapes.
stem stitch ! It’s a very versatile stitch! It curves beautifully, can be lovely in mass and not but not least, it’s fairly fast
Palestrina knot / Old English knot / Double knot stitch is my favourite stitch I love the rythem of the stitch and the varieations you can do with it by just a few simple alterations, eg making the “legs” longer or the distance between the knots lo gerand the rythem is very medatitive.
Stem Stitch
Hi! This is a great question! I think my stitch for life would be a lazy daisy. That way, I could fill the world with flowers forever!
Running stitch for me – such a simple stitch and yet it can produce so many patterns by just tweaking the lengths of the stitches.
I would do the Chain Stitch.
The one stitch I would have to spend my life with is cross stitch. Although I love expanding my horizons & learning new stitches & techniques, cross stitch is my go-to for relaxation after working on something more complicated, or if I’m tired & don’t need to think too much. I would love to have the stitch cards to continue learning new stitches!
I don’t know how to do very many stitches so I would have to go with cross stitch.
Live to embroidery!
If I had to choose one stitch to stitch for the rest of my life, it would be the open-sided edging stitch (aka Nun’s stitch). This is such a sturdy, versatile stitch for any finished edge. Fabric can be trimmed very close to the row of stitching for a finished edge and/or to prevent fraying, and it can also be left as a row of stitching for a border. It is a simple stitch to master, and is rythmetical once you feel comfortable with it.
I would stitch the palestrina stitch because I need to practice that stitch more.
I think the stitch I would use if the only stitch I could use in a lifetime would be the backstitch because it is very versatile. Jane Cely
Chain stitchery would be my go-to as it can be used in such a variety of ways. Lengthen the tail to make pistil stitch; in a circle for a flower head; whip either side for definition; pull slightly tighter for texture when stitching in a line (makes great branches or stems). So many uses
French Knots, I don’t know why, but I just love the way they look and I enjoy making them, that’s the stitch I would do for the rest of my life, lol. Plus, they’re easy to make.
This is a hard one. I know that you can do a lot with just one stitch but….
I guess I would choose the bullion knot because I enjoy making them.
Back Stitch because I do know that one! Need to learn about all the other stitches names!
Only one stitch? I’d do straight stitches, which is sort of cheating, since I could mentally include in this running stitch, couching stitches, and even satin stitch. (And maybe even silk shading.) Much of what I embroider is for church, so goldwork is an important part of my output. So, if I can’t “cheat” I’d have to go with couching.
Split stitch. I haven’t used it for a long time but when I have I find it so relaxing to do and it achieves such beautiful texture with very little effort. It’s the best fill stitch in my opinion.
Split stitch. I haven’t used it for a long time but when I have I find it so relaxing to do and it achieves such beautiful texture with very little effort. It’s the best fill stitch in my opinion. When I entered this it said I had already said that. Don’t know how as this is my first comment.
I would stitched French Knots. They are so versatile. They can be made small or large or anywhere in between. They create a great textural price and can be used to make any design you imagination can conceive.
I really like the backstitch. Simple and easy, so I don’t have to think.
What a wonderful idea, easy and handy
Question…it would be the back stitch, so versatile!
I would do the backstitch. It’s easy, adaptable with length and thread.
I love the stem stitch and I could see myself doing it for a long time.
If I could only stitch one stitch, I would choose long and short silk shading. I love the versatility of using only one strand of different colours, and creating such a variety of shades and scenes.
Stem stitch! So much you can do with this simple stitch.
I would do the buttonhole stitch. I enjoy the way the thread flows when making the buttonhole and that it is very versatile.
I would probably use the stem stitch for my one stitch.
I’m a novice at embroidery, so I don’t have a lot of experience with different stitches. With what I’ve learned so far, the one stitch I’d choose would be the backstitch due to its versatility and ease. It’s my “relaxing” stitch 🙂
My answer to the question you posed in your give-a-way is the Running Stitch. This is the first one taught to beginners. It is used in many cultures to layer fabrics in clothing for warmth and to enhance such fabrics with designs. Depending on the length of stitches and how far apart they are spaced, the possibilities, using the running stitch, are endless.
Judy Cooper
It would be the french knot! Love how versatile this little stitch is. It is great on it’s own, but also great for filling. Great texture!
Stem stitch: it’s easy and looks so pretty!
Cross Stitch! Good color fill and lovely texture!
The blanket stitch would be my choice. It works to finish an edge, to do surface needle lace and to build texture . Combining blanket stitches give amazing effects and unique motififs.
NancyG
The stitch I would if I could only have one would a lazy daisy stitch. It has so many variations that a stitcher can mold it into almost any area or shape.
Just one stitch?!
Maybe the stem stitch because it outlines things and can also be used as a filler.
CORRECTION: The stitch I would choose if I could only have one would be a lazy daisy stitch. It has so many variations that a stitcher can mold it into almost any area or shape.
I guess if I could only use one stitch it would be long and short stitch, but I would really miss having stem stitch…glad I don’t have to choose! Merry Christmas!
The Embroidery cards and book look fabulous.
I think this is a tough one but I think the simple split stitch would be adaptable for any space and be adjusted for most spaces.
If I had to spend the rest of my stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, it would be the split stitch! It’s actually the first stitch I remember my mom trying to teach me, and it’s so versatile for both outlining and filling!
If I had to use just one stitch for the rest of my life, it would probably be the stem stitch due to its versatility. It can be used for outlining and filling, and is one of the best stitches for lettering (in my opinion). It also adds some texture and dimension to a piece.
If I could only use one stitch I would be sad because I don’t want to only use one stitch. I guess I could do the backstitch but I love the blanket stitch and the French knot and the bullion stitch.
What a great giveaway. Sounds handy to get us to try new stitches. But my favourite stitch is long and short stitch for embroidery…still have not perfected this one but. Practice makes Perfect ? Thanks for the Christmas giveaways. Lovely. Ariel
A chain stitch — it is so versatile for outlining and filling, and for sizing thickness.
I would do the Lazy Daisy. There are so many variations.
What a brilliant concept! I love the idea of being able to take out a card just like a recipe card.
My fall back stitch if in doubt is the stem stitch. I can still remember your tutorial on that. I have had a few dust-ups with folks who claim it is identical to the outline stitch.
Cross-stitch: my only stitching for 30+ years and still the go-to when I feel overwhelmed by life and other stitches
This is a very difficult question to answer but I would have to say counted cross stitch. One of my favorite stitches however, is the queen stitch. I believe it is a favorite because it’s not used very often in patterns but it is fun to stitch and I like the look of it. I didn’t choose that stitch because I’m not sure it alone would lend its self to a total pattern .
If I could only use one stitch the rest of my life it would be the chain stitch, large, medium, small, as a line, as a filling, etc
Thank you. My favorite stitch would have to to be the chain stitch. With this stitch you are able to turn corners and make snake like lines and it still looks great.
I really like the chain stitch ….it seems I rely on it a lot
One stitch is hard to decide on. I generally use stem stitch for most of my redwork, but I am doing a piece in chain stitch. You can do lots of various changes to chain stitch, so I will choose chain stitch!!
But, really, I love all stitches!!
I love Stem Stitch! However as a left-hander I found it really tough to learn as I was always shown the right handed method. Now I’ve adapted a huge number of stitches to suit my left-handedness but stem stitch always left me confused with a mess! Have you ever tried to “undo” a stem stitch easily?
Once I obtained Yvette Stanton’s
wonderful book of stitches for left handed embroiderers I was away. Wonderful success.
Merry Christmas and hopefully a Peaceful New Year to everyone. And thank you Mary for a wonderful year of designs, tips and ideas. Just stunning.
Jane Brennan, Melbourne, Australia
Dear Mary,
The stitch cards sound like a very good idea.
If restricted to one stitch I would do long and short stitch for thread painting.
Thank you!
Louisa
Back stitch because it can go every where and I can dress it up if I want!
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, it would be the back stitch. Why? Because it is a great stitch to make lines, whether straight or curved. You can do lettering. You can use it to outline other stitching.
These cards are a fabulous idea, thanks Mary for the opportunity to read about them. Because I’m a hopeless nerd and history buff, I’d probably opt for split stitch like that used in opus anglicanum. It’s amazingly versatile and would I think take great skill to use for shading. Something I am yet to attempt.
I would spend the rest of my stitching life using the backstitch because it’s simple and you can really create some nice patterns.
I could spend a lifetime doing French knots or colonial knots. I can do them mindlessly, and they are ever so beautiful and richly covering whatever space or shape you choose.
My favorite stitch is the basketweave in needlepoint. I hope that counts. If not, it would be the blanket stitch in embroidery.
Your lessons are just perfect
Oh my, that’s a tough choice. I’m thinking maybe stem stitch, because you can draw shapes with it so nicely. Then again, I’m oddly partial to French knots, and…
I would choose the outline stitch. It is easy and relaxing.
Thank you for the “give away”.
Wow, that is really a hard one. I like French knots but they are limiting. I suppose chain stitch or stem stitch would be the most useful if I couldn’t use any others.
My favorite stitch is the Lazy Daisy stitch. When I was very young and my mom was teaching me to embroider, I remember how magical it seemed to make flowers so easily!
If I had to pick a forever stitch I think it would be a chain stitch or a lazy dasy stitch.Its hard to just pick one stitch. Thankyou for the giveaway.
I think I would stitch the chain stitch – it’s satisfying to do and by varying stitch length, thread weight, etc., it can be quite versatile. But I am so glad this is a decision I never have to make 🙂
It would be the blanket stitch one of my favourites.
Long and short stitch because it can be used to create such wonderful shading in stranded cotton, silk and wool. It presents a continuous challenge and can be used to create lifelike pictures of nature (flowers, birds and animals). Margaret Dier’s book Threadpainting and Silk Shading Embroidery shows how it has been used in a wide variety of styles through history – it surprised me how much variety there can be in how one stitches and uses long and short stitch to get different effects.
Only one stitch? Oh my! I love cross stitching so that’s a good choice. I still enjoy doing needlepoint, so tent stitch or continental might work. But I also enjoy doing simple embroidery, so I think outline stitch might be the most useful.
The couching stitch. Simple but you can create amazing patterns and designs stitching down passing, or ribbon, or fibres, or other found objects, with the couching stitch.
French Knot!
If only to learn to do them as perfectly as my grandmother did!
Hi Mary! If I could select one stitch, I would select the blanket stitch. I like this stitch because it holds layers of fabric together (decoratively), its lengths can be varied (it can look like a piano keyboard!), and it smooths out a buttonhole. Thank you!
Cross stitch.
Because I am familiar with it, you can make words and flowers and animals and almost anything with a cross stitch or variation of a cross stitch!
It’s difficult to pick just one stitch, but I would pick the stem stitch. It’s flexible in that it can be used for stems (of course), outlining, and even filling.
My favorite stitch is French knot. You can pretty much use this stitch for everything! It makes a beautiful border. It’s a lovely filler. It makes an unusual but lovely scrip alphabet. There is very little that isn’t enhanced by a few French knots!
I would pick the herringbone stitch. I like how it looks–it adds interest to a project, looks complicated, but is really easy to do.
I love the blanket stitch! It looks folksy and difficult, and it makes the edges look so nice
If I only had one stitch for the rest of my life, it would be cross stitch. I started my stitching journey with cross stitch and I would be happy finishing it that way.
Wow, that’s a tough question. Probably Straight Stitch because it is so versatile and is actually a base for so many other stitches. I can make short ones or long long ones, situate them next to each other for filling, tiny short ones for seed stitch, etc.
Long and short stitch……..love the way it blends colors…..
I’ma real novice, newby and just started so I don’t know the names but I am stitching a jean jacket using satin stitch I think its called. Lots of French knots too.
Needlepainting – not sure if it counts as “one” stitch, but the infinite possibilities with it are entrancing. And it’s remarkably easy to do, for something that looks so spectacular!
Holly
If I could only stitch one stitch forever, I’d make it the chain stitch. It can do some many different things and it’s also so quick!!
Hi Mary,
I would be happy to stitch the feather stitch for the rest of my days on a desert island. It has many variations, can be bold or dainty, can bend and wind or be straight, can use lots of different threads, and adds something pretty to whatever it’s stitched on. Thank you for you and for the giveaway! Lynn
If I was limited to only one stitch, I would use the stem stitch. It looks good outlining letters and any line drawing.
I had a hard time with this, choosing just one type of stitching, but I guess I would have to say cross stitch because so many patterns use this. But french knots came in a close second as i have enjoyed making french know pictures. Also the outline stitch came in close as it is so versatile & lots of pretty pictures can be made with just outline stitch.
I enjoy your blog a lot & have made 3 of your felt needle holders. Two to give away & added a pretty stitch counter pin to the outside for the gift ones. I love the mostly wool felt feel. Thanks for all your ideas.
Bullion Stitch, because it gives my flowers depth, and I appreciate the way the stitches lay on the fabric. So many ways to use the bullion stitches from , stems, flower petals, buttonholes, spider webs, rose buds and lets no forget our little wheat leaves with all those wonderful bullion centers. What texture they add to our craft. Oh and lets not forget those little bullion knots that make our designs pop. And dont forget the Colonial and French knots we throw into the mix. Oh my gosh I’m Bullion and Knot crazy. Love them all.
I would use cross stitch. It is versatile, easy as my eyes age, and I like the look of it.
The one stitch I would do over and over again is the chain stitch…I could make it fat and fluffy or skinny, and curl it around in any direction, and just for fun, I’d give it a tug and like magic it would all come undone!
I wonder what your stitch would be, Mary? I needed this distraction this evening and it got me down a very nice rabbit hole….thanks so much for all you do!
If I could only use one stitch for the rest of my life, it would probably be the lazy daisy stitch because it gives you a lot of “bang for a buck,” as the expression goes. With the lazy daisy stitch, I can quickly form a flower; and since my mother taught me this stitch when I was a little girl, it brings back fond memories of time spent with her!
Stem stitch because I finally made all my stitches go the right way!
I could easily do chain stitch for ever
A perfect gift for my granddaughters who want to learn embroidery! Ages 19, 21, 24!
Forgot to answer question…. Probably basketweave as I’m primarily a needlepointer…..it can be embellished with all kinds of surface stitches
I think I would go with French knots. They can be decorative, but they can also be used as a filling stitch. But I really hope this single-stitch future doesn’t come to pass! Variety is the spice of life!
If I could do only one stitch for the rest of my life it would be bullions! They have so many uses and now that I’m good at them, I look forward to stitching them.
Satin stitch: it can be used as a single or multiple stitch.
The stich that I like to do the most is the cross stitch. I will use it forever.
If I were limited to just one stitch for the rest of my life, it would have to be the cross-stitch, because of the amazing versatility available in designs (from simple to complex) and the extraordinary amount of colors and types of background fabrics and threads that can be utilized!
I love the French knot! It is so easy to do, really mindless and a great way to meditate. I use it for filling in floral centres, for landscape such as grass, for adding depth to create raised texture. It is especially effective in miniature needlework for dollhouse miniatures. Have a happy Christmas Mary!
Inspiring‼️ Merry Christmas‼️
Chain stitch. Because I like the way it looks, and it’s really versatile – it can be used to cover large areas, outline, or create simple or intricate patterns or objects by itself. It’s also a really nice stitch to use with different colours.
I think if I had to use just one embroidery stitch I would have to choose the cross stitch. It is quite versatile, easy to do,gret for samplers s well as more complicated design shading.
If I had to choose just one stitch to stitch for the rest of my stitching life…I would choose the blanket stitch! It is easy to stitch, looks neat, holds fast and is effective in the job it is supposed to do. Also..it is a pretty stitch…❤️
Stem stitch. I would be working on tablecloths with matching napkins.
If I had to spend the rest of my life stitching one stitch, it would be the Hungarian braided chain. I had to practice it repeatedly but once I got the hang of it, I loved the rhythm of it and was rewarded with so much texture especially with a variegated pearl cotton. The depth of color and texture are so nice with this stitch I would stitch a lot faster if I didn’t stop so often to admire this stitch.
My go to stitch would be back stitch. It’s versatile and can be used for outlines, stems, buildings, and with a bit of imagination filling stitches as well
My one stitch would probably be the chain stitch. You can fill in areas with it as well as outline. This was a really hard question!
So many stitches to choose from!
I would say I like the blanket stitch the best because of its versatility. I use it in sewing for button holes and decoration, appliqué, embroidery and finishing rug hooking.
You didn’t say which is your favorite and why; that would be interesting.
Happy Holidays to you and yours!
If I could only stitch one stitch, it would be the stem stitch. There is so much that can be done with stem, such as outlining, filling in areas of a design and of course depicting branches on trees, etc.
My favorite stitch is the Hungarian Braided Chain stitch. I enjoy doing and and I like the way it looks. If you had asked which stitch I USE most though there would have been a different answer
I love the stem stitch. I think it’s a fairly east stitch to learn and can be used for either outline or as a filler.
It would be the feather stitch. I love its organic nature and its many variations. As a crazy quilter I use it a lot.
If I only had 1 stitch (heavens says it’s not So!), I would pick a backstitch I can outline or enhance anything with that stitch!!
Hahaha!
I love the smooth lay of a satin stitch.
If I had only one stitch to create for the rest of my life would probably be stem stitch. It’s easy, versatile and one I use all the time. Merry Christmas!
Thank you so much, Mary, for your generosity and support (way beyond embroidery) year after year.
Your reviews are of great help.
God bless.
I love making daisy petals and french knots both. Couldn’t decide which was better.
Thanks for asking.
I would have to say that Cast-On stitches are a personal favourite because there are several different ways to do this stitch. It’s fun to see the different ways the Cast-On stitches create for flowers, and many other things.
I rather enjoy learning all the stitches that I possibly can!
Happy Holidays to all!!
I don’t know that many stitches, which is why I need to win this. 🙂 I guess I would choose stem stitch for being able to effectively outline images
I like so many stitches, but probably my favourite is Elizabethan chain stitch. I can’t do it the normal way now and I love the effect that it makes.
I would choose Cross-stitch, as at least I could work on making samplers
Stem stitch! You can do lots with it and besides backstitch, cross stitch and tent I don’t know many others yet!
If I had only one stitch to use for the rest of my life, I think it would be the stem stitch. It’s very versatile, it can take curves and corners, it’s beautiful and it’s relatively quick. Thank you for all of these give-aways!
Chain stitch would be m stitch of choice for its versatility as a filling stitch and also a border. You can also switch it up to make an Hungarian Braid.
I like a blanket stitch. You can applique any fabric or design with it.
I dont think I could just do one stitch but I guess back stitch because I love shadow work.
I’d choose the blanket stitch to do for the rest of my life because it’s something that should be so easy but still requires attentiveness and intention. Easy to mess up but so gratifying when the symmetry, tension and end result all come into play. Yep, that’s the one.
I think it would probably have to be the outline stitch…… (could this qualify as a segway (sp?) to long and short???!!) But it would be very hard to stick to ONE stitch!!
I like to use the Palestrina stitch as it is good for outlining as well as lending embellishment.
If I could only do one stitch, I think it would be the chain stitch because it has many variations to it.
Oh dear! I’m just starting out with surface embroidery & don’t know many stitches. I like the French Knots that I’ve used in Cross Stitch. However, one of my pet peeves with crafting books is they’re not spiral bound. These cards look like a terrific idea. Thanks for the great opportunity, you are so generous.
I would love to do satin stitch! It is so ’embroidery’
He’s just Dreadfully
It would have to be long and short stitch for me. Such a tricky technique to perfect but an endless array of design and colour possibilities to explore with it.
I would do cross stitch–the method I learned back in 1975 to keep the stitches straight on the back (unless one does a a many changes of colour it may be tricky) agreed with me so much, that when I have taught a cross stitch class that is the way I hope students understand and will go forward with it when doing cross stitch. Many ethnic patterns were adapted to cross stitch which many feel is easier to execute than the original stitch.
Basket weave
I would probably stick to simple cross stitch because there are lots of patterns available <3
I would alas, be traditional and stick with what I know, which is cross stitch. One day I will try “real” embroidery!
The stitch I would pick would be buttonhole stitch as I love cut work. I know you do need running stitch to do it properly but if it is only one stitch allowed then button hole would be the one.
Regards
Delia
The embroidery cards look amazing.
I enjoy reading your blogs and the Embroidery Stitches Card Deck looks great! I would love to win a set.
If I could only do one stitch it would have to be French Knots as I just love them and they can vary so much with different yarns.
Many thanks for your designs and how to stitch them, I am still finishing the autumn leaves but I have made Christmas tree decorations and Christmas gift tags.
My favourite stitch is Buttonhole or sometimes known as Blanket stitch. I have been making needlelace for the last 25 years.
I wish you a merry Christmas and joy of the Christ child,
With best wishes for health and wealth for 2025, Love, Carol. X
I SOOO LOVE PONTO DA VELHA (DON’T KNOW HOW TO CALL IT IN ENGLISH… SORRY…) CAN SHOW IMAGE IF YOU’RE CURIOUS.
I SOOO LOVE PONTO DA VELHA (DON’T KNOW HOW TO CALL IT IN ENGLISH… SORRY…) CAN SHOW IMAGE IF YOU’RE CURIOUS. IT FLOWS SO EASILY IN YOUR HANDS EVEN THOUGH IT’S NO THE EASIEST.
Having a short term memory deficit, these cards would be so beneficial for me!!!
I choose the French knot because maybe after a lifetime of making them I’d finally get the hang of making them a consistent size!
Hi!
Really hard to choose!but I think It would be the split stitch!..it is versatile and easy!…just love using it!
Thanks!hope am the one!…I’m a beginner and it would be really useful!
Have a good day from Canada!
I would stitch the chain stitch. It has so many varieties. Can be made thicker or thinner by varying threads or number of stitches. I also like the flow. I find it easier to control consistancy of size.
I probably would do cross stitch. I grew up doing these in all sorts of simple projects until I saw the cross stitch patterns and books you could buy. It was really the first stitch I learned to do and it brings a level of comfort when I sit with a pattern, thread and a piece of linen.
I could spend the rest of my life using the lowly chain stitch and it’s variations. It is so easy and versatile. Who can resist the zigzag or double chain? And whipping and lacing is so much fun…
If I could only do one stitch, it would have to be the cross stitch. As there are so many variations and ways to do it, and can make almost anything with it, that would have to be the one.
If I could only do one stitch, it would have to be the cross stitch. As there are so many variations and ways to do it, and can make almost anything with it, that would have to be the one.
If I could only do one stitch, it would have to be the cross stitch. As there are so many variations and ways to do it, and can make almost anything with it, that would have to be the one.
If I could only do one stitch, it would have to be the cross stitch. There are so many variations and ways to do it, I would probably not get tired of it. And it lends itself so well to making up patterns.
Cross stitch, as it’s so versatile and has so many variations on how to do it. It lends itself well to all patterns and fabrics.
Long and short stitch in crewel wool on twill linen. I love how it covers a shape and the shading that can make shapes look three dimensional.
I would stitch the stem stitch! It’s the first stitch my grandmother taught me and is very versatile. You can make it think or thin, as an outline, as the main stitch, etc. These cards look amazing!
that you for the chance to win the card look they they would be very useful
If I had to stitch one stitch only it would be the blanket stitch for applying my appliqués to the background- I like the look it gives and use it for wool and cotton projects
Long and short stitch, so I can paint with thread forever!
Christmas give away 2 – If I had just one stitch to do for the rest of my life, it would be the French Knot. For some reason, I find this stitch to be extremely challenging to do consistently but so extremely satisfying when I do it right! I also find it to be a very versatile stitch since I can make small ones with one strand and two wraps or large ones with more threads and more wraps. I can do outlines (curved or straight), filling or single dots with this one stitch. It’s funny because there are quite a few stitches that I enjoy, but when I read your question, I didn’t have to think long and knew immediately what my answer was!
The one stitch I would like to stitch the rest of my life is the one used to attach shisha mirrors to cloth. It is involved enough to require practice to get it looking right.
This one is easy. Cross stitch is my favorite, even thought back stitch often creeps into the “picture”. I’m not really crazy about that one but sometimes it is necessary to set off a particular part of a design. But I could be happy just cross stitching for the rest of my life.
This is hard, there are so many.
I’ll go with the feather stitch. It’s a good filler. Single, double or triple, it’s versatile. On smocking it has been a more challenging stitch.
I guess I would have to choose blanket stitch as I do a lot of wool applique. But when I’m doing embroidery it seems I rely on chain and stem stitch a lot – they’re just so versatile. I guess that makes three!
If I only had one stitch to use, it would be the beautiful but often overlooked back stitch. It allows you to draw almost anything you can imagine with the beautiful colors of anything thread your heart desires. It is simple, elegant and never fails to paint the wonderful pictures the world shows us. It is reliable like and knows things just like “women of a certain age”! And yet it is one of the very first stitches we learn. It is like your first love, always in your heart.
I would choose the stem stitch. Although it’s a basic stitch, I believe it’s beautiful if done well.
Thank you for the giveaway!
I had to think about this question and finally settled on the lowly French Knot. You can do amazing things with this simple stitch. I always enjoy your mailings. Thank you.
That is such an interesting question. I really had to think about it, but I think I would choose the blanket stitch because it can be a useful stitch to hem items and to put together felt pieces, plus it can also become a decorative stitch as well. I love those stitch decks, that would be so useful. I sometimes teach my grand daughters new stitches. One likes to hand stitch all her projects, she doesn’t use a sewing machine, and I have to say that her stitches are very even and tight, you may not even notice that it was not sewn on the sewing machine. I taught her the ladder stitch or the invisible stitch to close up a project so you didn’t see the seam. Those cards would have been a great asset when teaching her the stitch. Thanks for the chance to win. Ginny K.
Drizzle stitches are my new favorite stitches. I just learned how to do them this year.
So difficult to choose. For practicality sake, it would have to be stem stitch because you could use it anywhere, but where’s the fun of that. What I love about embroidery is the variety of stitches used and trying something new.
That is a tough choice, but I would choose long and short stitch. I like to embroider flowers and using long/short stitch brings the flowers to life. The outline/stem stitch is my second choice. Need stems to finish the flowers.
I love using the Palestrina stitch. It compliments my tatting! With a deck o’ stitches, I could expand that repretoire.
Beaded Palestrina stitch. It just gives me joy to see it!
Thanks for this awesome giveaway away!
If I had to stitch the rest of my life stitching just one stitch… the outline stitch immediately came to mind. The outline stitch is not the most beautiful stitch nor the most exciting stitch but it is the most versatile and adaptable stitch to stitch the rest of the stitching projects I have while I can still stitch… Kathleen 4theloveofstitch
Chain stitch because I like the look of it to outline items.
If I could only do one stitch for the rest of my life it would be cross stitch. It is a simple stitch to make but the patterns can be extremely involved creating a painting with thread.
Good Morning and Happy Holidays!
Thank you for the giveaways this season. What a hard question to answer. I love a good cast-on stitch, but the Palestrina stitch is such a lovely way to edge a project, but I believe my most used stitch is a French knot. So I guess if I could only use one stitch it would be a French knot.
What a difficult choice! I guess it would have to be the straight stitch since you can get many different effects by where you place them.
I would pick the chain stitch. The length and width can be controlled with different types of thread. You can stack it, you can stitch each line close or far apart, you can weave it. For me the ideas to use chain stitch are many.
Loop stitches are enjoyed for their ease. The CHAIN STITCH is my choice to do SS a line stitch forever. It can have different appearances dependent upon the number of loops put together. One lonely loop says a little cluster together it says much more. Two stitches can angle up down or sideways to express something, getting to three, four, five… 30, 50 says something altogether different. I am especially pleased at how easy the chain stitch comes off my needle. This makes the chain stitch my preferred stitch IF given the limitation of only one embroidery stitch between here and forever.
Oh, my…just one?! For me, it would have to be the back stitch. The first stitch that I learned, from my mother, was the stem stitch – which seemed to be her favorite go-to stitch for everything.
I would use the outline stitch. It’s easy and mindless and can be used as a filler too.
Lesta Little
Linda from NJ – I could do the stem stitch forever allows one to meander along where ever the imagination leads.
I can’t imagine such a horrible thought!…maybe a blanket stitch…at least that can be varied in size and density…
I would love to have the time to stitch just ONE stitch!! The deck of cards looks interesting!
Back stitch
As a relative beginner you might think this would be an easy choice to make! I quickly narrowed it down to backstitch, running stitch a French knot , the 3 stitches I can produce from memory. I must discard the French knot as too tedious to do indefinitely. I really love my backstitch, but I am thinking I could do more with running stitch by spacing the stitches very close together or far apart and lining up parallel rows, varying stitch length … yes running stitch is the winner! And now I’m even more grateful for the huge variety of stitches available.
The stitch would have to be the straight stitch, because that is the one I know the best. My embroidery projects are very simple.
I would choose the stem stitch because it can be used as both an outline and a filler stitch.
Wow! This is a tough question! One of my favorite things about embroidery is the variety of stitches. I can only do so many crosses before losing interest. I will have to say the heavy braided chain stitch (or maybe the bullion or…). It’s versatile and fun to do!
The one stitch I would stitch if it was the only one I could stitch for the rest of my life is the cross stitch There are so many designs out there that have that stitch and only that stitch on them. And thank you again for offering such a lovely gift.
That’s a tough call! But even though it’s not flashy I’d probably go with stem stitch. I use it a LOT — I do a lot of lettering and it’s my fave lettering stitch for most purposes.
Hi Mary, Thank you for your giveaways.
One stitch? LOL like you. I guess it would have to be the satin stitch because there are other mediums that use it like Hardanger.
French knots are my favorite because you can do them without thinking!!
I Love Love Love learning and being challenged with new stitches on a simple med weight muslin. Practicing and labeling my practice work allows me to refresh my brain! Whether I use again that stitch is not the point but the journey!
May first thought was cross stitch because I do so much of that, but then I thought it would have to be back stitch because you can “draw” better with a line!
I would choose long and short stitch because I can never get it right and I’d have lots of time to perfect it.
I would use the stem stitch if it were the only stitch I could do. It’s a strong stitch that lends itself to last.
If I could use only one stitch, it would have to be the chain stitch, because it is so versatile. It can be made long or short, thick or thin, or even reversed. But goodness, what fun it would be to have the stitch cards in front of one when embroidering and using a big variety of stitches.
Stem stitch is my go to stitch.
The stitch I would choose would be the straight stitch because it can be used many different ways to make different effects. Just in one row it’s the basic running stitch, crossed over each other it becomes a cross stitch, several stitches over each other in a circular pattern becomes a star, etc.
Just ONE stitch?!! Chain stitch — so many ways to make it fun and interesting.
It would be the palestrina stitch because it is effective and beautiful
If I could only use one stitch, it would be chain stitch. It’s so pretty, it works up really fast, it’s versatile and great for both fill and lines
I would do the outline stitch. It is quick and still can tell a story!
I guess it would be the cross stitch. I have enough projects to last the rest of my life!
I would use a chain/daisy stitch. For me, it’s flexible enough to outline or fill and I’ve used it for both.
I would choose the chain stitch because it can be used to embroider images as well as outlining.
the one stitch I would do the rest of my stitching life would be the French Knot – it is very versatile – can be used to embellish other items, or do a complete picture in French knots. You can also create dimension by using different weights of thread or the number of threads to create the knot.
If I had to choose just one stitch it would be the blanket stitch as I use it a lot it my felt embroidery work to join two pieces of felt together. It also works well as an embellishment stitch in heavier weights of thread.
I would probably use the cross stitch if I had to do one It not my favorite but you can do so much with it. Next would be outline or satin stitch
I would say the stem stitch! Easy, fast and can use in many ways! Merry Christmas!
I would use a chain stitch. It is easy to do with and without a hoop. It works well large and small.
Chain stitch would do it for me.
I think just a stem stitch. The use of various combination of thread colors, types of threads and drawn lines on the fabric can surely make such a difference in the way the stitch turns out.
Chain stitch. I could do borders, stems, flowers, etc. So you could make a whole picture with one stitch!
If I had only one stitch to use it would be the french knot. I think it so versatile, it can fill, make lines and patterns. And it is 3 dimensional to boot!! Win-win.
The one stitch I would use would be the stem stitch. It is most often my go to stitch.
Love the stem stitch. It is so versatile and yet so relaxing. I could stem stitch all day long….always!!
If I could only stitch one stitch it would be cross stitch.
I love French knots!! French knots would make any stitch pattern look great!!
How awesome a gift! I would stitch French Knots. I know some people hate them, but I like them and don’t find them difficult. I did a pic of a cherry tree once and the whole top was french knots in shades of pink.
The stem stitch because it’s pretty versatile
I would choose the chain stich; it’s so versatile for outlines, fill-ins – large or small!
If I had to do only stitch for the rest of my life, it might be a raised stem band because it’s a fun relatively fast, easy stitch to fill in larger areas.
If I could ONLY use one stitch, it would probably end up being chain stitch, as it outlines and fills (in a pinch) and you can make pretty little flowers too. We LOVE you Mary, thank you for all you do.
Merry Christmas!!
If I could only use one stitch, I’d choose stem stitch. It’s so uncomplicated and almost meditative.
If I had to pick one, it would be the stem stitch as it so flexible.
Probably cross stitch! Sometimes it’s so simple and soothing..
Gosh, that’s a tricky one isn’t it? But you can combine straight stitching into all sorts of things, so maybe I should pick that. Can straight stitches also be long-and-short? If I can’t weasel out of it that way, I pick cross stitch as the one I do most.
These stitch decks look so handy and helpful! Probably the Running Stitch! So many variations from this solid basic stitch! P
And thank you so much for all the valuable content you offer!
Great question! I enjoyed the route my thinking took to come up with an answer. Oddly enough, it would be the STRAIGHT STITCH. It allows me to explore so many other needlework styles – blackwork, pulled thread, bargello, and Swedish huck weaving.
I love the items you are going to give away . The card idea is great and I am always looking for new books on stitches!
Limiting me to one stitch is difficult, so I’ll pick cross stitch.
Palestrina stitch! Love it as an edge!
I don’t have a favorite yet. Every time I do any embroidery I have to look up how to do each stitch because I still don’t know them well, so this would be such a great item to have. Thanks for the chance to win!
I’d choose to do the braid stitch if I could stitch one stitch forever. It can be stitched straight or curved, and is a good”filler” stitch as well as a good outliner!
I’d go with long and short stitch, because it can go in different types of spaces and looks good with multiple colors. Also, it’s fun!
If ihad to limit myself to just one stitch, it would be chain stitch. By varying the number of threads and/or the length of the loop one can create dozens of textures. It’s a good filler stitch, but also great for line drawing type work.
Well, Mary, a very difficult one! but I think the stitch I would be able to use on most occasions would be split back stitch!
I love this site ♥️
The satin stitch because I enjoy seeing the results.
I love the chain stitch because it is so versatile. I can’t wait to learn tambour embroidery.
The cross stitch would be my favorite.
My one stitch would be a cross stitch. Still my favorite after 45+ years. Since I have 100s of projects to do, all kitted, I better stick with that. Of course, I do plan on living to be 150 years!!
Crazy I know, but I would chose French knots. I can just see myself in my dotage, filling up meters and meters of fabric with French knots with all the colours of floss in my stash.
I’m so torn. I love counted cross stitch, because it is so versatile, but I think I’m going to opt for chain stitch as my one and only if I had to choose. I love that it can be thin and delicate, or thick and chunky. It can be threaded with another color, and it can be used as a fill.
Satin stitch
I would do split stitch. I love shading and filling in with it.
I’m just really getting into embroidery again. I was diagnosed and treated for tardive disconnesia (I know I spelled that totally wrong) and the shaking has slowed down a lot. I think I like embroidery the best. I have done cross stitch and needle point and latch hooking. Ready to learn some new things.
I would use the French knot. I love the way you can make moss and cover designs with different colors.
The outline stitch would be my top choice, because you can use it for lettering, tree branches, snow swirls, and of course outlining an object.
I would stitch a tent stitch on 40 count silk gauze because that would mean that my eyesight continues to be good.
If you had to spend the rest of your stitching life stitching just ONE stitch, what would it be and why?
I have to say Chain stitch. It was the first interesting stitch I felt confident in and I still find myself using it when just holding a threaded needle and fabric. My mother sat me down in 1949 when I was 3 with a hooped piece of fabric and needle and thread and started this journey. I have actually tried making my own stitch book because mine are all so big, so the cards would be fabulous!
If I could only use 1 stitch for the rest of my stitching life…I think I would use a backstitch or straight stitch. I suppose it’s versatile enough for wording and yet you could use it to fill in too. As long as I still have lots of colors and types of threads/fibers to use.
It’s not really a stich unto itself so I don’t know if it counts, but ANYTHING whipped! No, I am not being kinky (and hopefully my thread isn’t either), but I love, love, love how whipping a chain stich, whipping a stem stitch, whipping a running stitch, whipping a feather stitch — whipping any stitch — enhances the stitch. In addition it gives you the opportunity to embellish with different colors or metallics. It is so satisfying to finish a row of stitches then go back and whip it and watch it transform.
Cross stitch
It took some thinking about this to come up with a stitch that would be versatile instead of monotonous. I would choose the upright gobelin stitch and use a huge variety of colors and threads so that I could do bargello, other geometric designs, and pictures.
I’m a cross stitch gal at heart. That’s my favorite stitch
I’m not sure I could just do one stitch! But… maybe French knots. They are an intriguing little stitch. To make many that look exactly the same is a real challenge, and they are very versatile. Flowers – sparkles – rows of them – fill in – they add texture to a flat surface and they are just plain fun to do!
Cross stitch. I never forget how to do it.
Oooh, that’s a tough one. I would pick the ever versatile Satin Stitch.
The card deck is darling! What a clever idea.
Stem stitch because it’s so versatile. You can use it to outline, fill, etc. But really, wouldn’t it be horrible to be limited to just one?
I’d choose the straight stitch, so I could make two of my favorite stitches (running stitch and seed stitch). I find these stitches very relaxing to do and I love how they look.
Stem Stitch is one of my go-to stitches, as it glides along in a rolling type manner.
I could stitch the french Knot forever. I love it for it’s texture and ability to fit into any design. It can fill in spaces like a fine woven carpet.
Blanket stitch for all of its practicality.
If I could only use one stitch for the rest of my life, I believe I would choose the stem stitch. I like that it can be used as a line stitch or a filling stitch. Using only the stem stitch would give me lots of practice, and my stitching would be bound to improve!
The stitch cards are a great idea. Thank you for offering a chance to win them.
My one stitch would be the Satin Stitch. It would be my practice, practice, practice toward perfection. As I would never reach perfection it would take a lifetime.
Just one stitch: stem stitch.
Stem stitch — it’s so satisfying to create those perfectly consistent curls, and it’s such a versatile stitch.
Wow Mary! Just one stitch…. I think it would have to be the French Knot because it is so versatile. You can use it to create straight or curved lines, as a filler, make it bigger and smaller…. Yup, definitely the French Knot!
I love the Palestrina stitch. It is easy, has texture, fits in many designs and is a very good outline alternative stitch.
I think I’d choose chain stitch as you can do so much with: plain chain, single chain, whipped chain (many different ways), closed chain, open chain, flat chain and many , many more versions. Thanks for this give away Mary and for the challenge that really made me think.
straight stitch – it is so very versatile and the textures you can achieve are endless. you can cross, layer, accent, change length, etc.
It would have to be a straight or satin stitch, because whole projects can be completed with just this one stitch.
Just one stitch…Long and short stitch. I think it would allow me to create a nice variety of items using lots of different colors and threads.
Jacquelyn
Stem stitch. So versatile!
If I could only use one stitch it would have to be cross stitch, because one can create a whole picture with it. But, I would prefer not to limit myself to just one, which is why those cards would be very handy!
Debbie
Cross Stitch — I could do it while my mind was going 100mph.
Just one stitch? Broad chain. It’s fast. I use it for outlines and filling. I can whip it and decorate it in so many way. (but I’m not actually willing to give up all the other stitches!)
French knot,I like texture!
I love to feather stitch. I’m just learning hand embroidery.
It may be boring but mine would be backstitch. It is always a challenge to me to get a straight line and the stitches even.!
One stitch for the rest of my life would have to be chain stitch. So versatile…..line stitch or filling stitch. Using it right now on Christmas ornaments….one if your trees (ebook).
Probably the stem stitch. I like it for outlining…and you can do so many things with it.
I love. the chain stitch. It is mesmerizing & meditative.
The blanket stitch
If I could only have one stitch it would be the blanket stitch. I have made many appliqué projects with cotton and fulled wool using the blanket stitch. The look of the stitch can be varied changing the spacing and length of the stitches. It is pretty worked in the round and makes lovely leaf and petal shapes. It is simple enough to teach to a child but can be exquisite when worked by a skilled embroiderer.
Stem stitch is very calming for me. Not sure why lol.
If I had to use just one stitch the rest of my life, it would be the stem stitch. There are so many ways to use it. Single lines and multiple lines side by side to fill in an area.
I would absolutely do chain stitch as my forever stitch… Even if the myriad variations aren’t allowed ( 😉 ), it’s such a versatile stitch – writing / letters, shading / filling, texture… It always makes me smile.
Cross stitch. I enjoy many others, but for therapy after stress I go back to the basics for soothing stitches.
Without question, the fly stitch would be my go-to! Short or tall, skinny or wide, dense or airy, the versatility of the fly would never let me down.
Thank you for this generous giveaway! I would have to choose the stem stitch as it can be used on everything and looks nice.
Merry Christmas Mary!
If there was only one stitch I was able to do it would be Hungarian Braid Stitch. I just love the way it can be manipulated along a line or can be stitch in side by side lines to fill a space. It follows a curve so beautifully! It’s the stitch for me!!
My one stitch would be chain stitch.
It’s so versatile, as an isolated stitch, an outline, a filler, with any thread, metallic threads and wires too.
I hope I might be allowed some of its variations as well, but if not, plain old chain stitch will do for me
I love any stitch where I wrap the needle, French knot, bullion. It gives beautiful texture to my work. This card deck is brilliant! Thank you
I love to stick the chain stitch and the heavy chainstitch as well. They make very beautiful lines.
Straight stitch
Versatile – many possibilities
I love the chain stitch …. It covers mistakes but you can travel around your project with it.
Cross stitch, it is so relaxing whereas other embroidery stitches requires me to think, make colour choices, make stitch choices and then I change my mind, frogg and start all over again. Cross stitch you follow a pattern and everything is decided for you….I guess I’m just lazy and was used to having an embroidery teacher telling me what to do next
I love the idea of the stitch deck (and dictionary), thank you for sharing!
As far as one stitch for the rest of my stitching life, my younger self would not believe these answers are coming from ME, but I would choose either French knot or Raised Fishbone/Padded Satin Leaf stitch.
It took me SO LONG to figure out the “rhythm” for both of these stitches when I started as a young child with my Gramma, but now, almost 30 years later (!!) it still feels like childhood magic when completing them.
I especially love the versatility of the French Knot (so that would be my absolute winner); it allows me to mimic art techniques like pointillism or to add dimension like beads or stumpwork would.
I love the daisy stitch I’ve used for years, one of the first stitches I learned about 55 yrs ago. I fell in love with embroidery as a teenager as I saw my mother embroider. The flowers took my heart in gardens, on lawns, in fields, just everywhere including on cloth. My cousin was an embroidery person also. The daisy has been present on so many of my projects and coming from others. It is easy, can be applied in all sizes, on many materials and I add beads so often to them. I would like to start using silk with the daisy stitch also.
Mary,
Now that I have learned this stitch I could stitch it forever. Plaistrini stitch I know it’s spelled wrong, but I usually just call it my pastrami stitch.
Thanks again
Melinda
The running stitch because you can do so much with it
Stem stitch. You can make beautiful outlines, but you can also use it to fill in areas, and make all kinds of patterns, so with one stitch you can do very versatile embroidery.
Someone might choose x-stitch, but although I like it for some embroidery,I don’t usually like the look of x-stitch if it doesn’t fill the canvas/cloth. An exception is i.e. Elsa Williams “After the rain” design, it’s really beautiful.