Explanation
The chain stitch is created by looping the thread through the previous insertion point, forming a chain of loops along a line.
Uses
- Hand embroidery: decorative outlines and motifs
- Machine embroidery: basis of early embroidery machines and certain stitch programs
- Sewing: occasionally used for joining fabric pieces
Characteristics
More elastic than running stitch, but less durable without reinforcement.
Chain stitch in machine embroidery
In modern home machine embroidery, chain stitch is less common as a visible default stitch than satin, fill, or running stitch. The term still matters because many decorative stitch programs imitate its looped look, and historical embroidery machines often relied on chain-stitch mechanics.
Compared with a running stitch, a chain stitch creates a stronger visual line because every loop catches the next one. This can look textured and handmade, but it also means the stitch behaves differently under tension. If one loop is damaged, the line can open more easily than a lockstitch-style seam.
For embroidery files, the exact result depends on how the design was digitized and which stitch types the machine supports.