Learn to stitch a barrier stitch, an N-shaped stitch used as a filling or border in Cross Stitch Projects.
More Stitch Tutorials - Cross Stitch Variations | Back Stitch Variations | More Stitch Tutorials
More Stitch Tutorials - Cross Stitch Variations | Back Stitch Variations | More Stitch Tutorials
Begin by gathering the supplies needed to stitch a barrier stitch.
To stitch a barrier stitch, you will need:
- a pair of sharp scissors
- a small embroidery hoop
- a piece of Aida or linen fabric large enough to overlap the hoop by a few inches
- a short length of embroidery floss - any color
- a tapestry needle.
Place the fabric in the hoop and set aside. Cut a 12 inch length of six-strand embroidery floss and separate the strands of floss. Thread the tapestry needle with one-two strands of the floss.
Step One: Stitch the first leg of the barrier stitch.
Click for larger image
In this diagram the 3 by 3 section of the grid represents one stitch. The light gray lines show the position of later parts of the stitch, to give perspective.
Begin the barrier stitch by securing the floss with a waste knot. Bring the threaded needle up at point 1. Take the needle down at point 2.
Begin the barrier stitch by securing the floss with a waste knot. Bring the threaded needle up at point 1. Take the needle down at point 2.
Step 2: Stitch the second leg of the barrier stitch.
Graphic © Connie G. Barwick, licensed to About.com, Inc.
In this diagram the 3 by 3 section of the grid represents one stitch. The light gray lines show the position of earlier and later parts of the stitch, to give perspective.
To stitch the next section of the barrier stitch, bring the needle up at point 3 and take it down at point 4.
To stitch the next section of the barrier stitch, bring the needle up at point 3 and take it down at point 4.
Step 3: Stitch the third leg of the barrier stitch.
Graphic © Connie G. Barwick, licensed to About.com, Inc.
In this diagram the 3 by 3 section of the grid represents one stitch. The light gray lines show the position of earlier parts of the stitch, to give perspective.
To stitch the final section of the barrier stitch, bring the needle up at point 5 and take it down at point 6.
Snip the waste knot and secure the floss.
To stitch the final section of the barrier stitch, bring the needle up at point 5 and take it down at point 6.
Snip the waste knot and secure the floss.
Continue practicing the barrier stitch.
Continue practicing the barrier stitch by using the most recent stitch as if it were the initial stitch. Repeat from the second section of the stitch and continue stitching barrier stitches until proficiency is increased.Share a Photo of Your Project
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