I saw a follower leaf-shaped thread in a fabric. I was like, “What is this? Is it a lazy daisy?” I searched on Google and figured out that both looked the same, but it’s not the same. Both work differently,
detached chain stitch is basically,
Detached Chain
To do a detached chain-stitch, make a small loop anchored with a tiny straight stitch at the tip to create a petal or teardrop shape.
Still, sound the same? It sounds the same to me, too. So, I decided to give it a try.
Table of Contents
What Is A Detached Chain Stitch?
A detached chain stitch is basically a chain stitch that is not connected to the fabric. That’s how it got its name.
It works like this,
Instead of linking into the next stitch, it forms one loop and is anchored down at the end with a tiny straight stitch. It’s called “ open chain stitch and lazy daisy” because it’s commonly used to make petal-like shapes—each stitch is a flower petal.
Detached Chain Stitch Vs Lazy Daisy
Both are the same stitch but with a slight difference. The thing is,
One single detached chain hook is called a detached chain stitch, and when any detached thread chain hook is used, it creates a follower-like pattern called a lazy daisy.
Rather than that, if you wanna be more specific, then,
| Feature | Detached Chain Stitch | Lazy Daisy |
| Definition | A single chain stitch loop anchored at the end | Another name for detached chain-stitch |
| Usage | Used for petals, leaves, accents | Commonly used for daisy or floral petals |
| Structure | One isolated loop with a straight stitch anchor | Same structure as detached chain |
| Names | Technical embroidery term | Casual, popular name for the same stitch |
| Are they different? | ❌ No—they are exactly the same stitch! | ✅ Just different names for the same thing |
Detached Chain Stitch Tutorial
I got so invested that I decided to show her the technique. I threaded my 6 size needle with Aurifil 12 weight thread.
Ok, now let’s begin the stitching.
Bring the Needle Up
I start by bringing my needle up through the fabric where I want the base of the petal to begin. I try to make sure the fabric is taut in my hoop, so I have a nice, even surface to work on. These steps work on the cable chain stitch pattern, too.
Create a Loop
Right next to that point—literally just a thread or two away. I take the needle down into the fabric again. I don’t pull the thread all the way through, though. I let it dangle, forming a small loop on the surface.
- I gently hold that loop with my finger or a laying tool. Loop size should be 1-2mm.
- If I’m stitching several petals, I try to keep each loop the same size consistently.
Bring the Needle Up Inside the Loop
Now, I find the tip of where I want my petal to end—about 1/4 to 1/2 inch from the starting point, depending on how long I want it.
I bring my needle back up inside the loop, coming up through the fabric and catching that loop with my thread as I pull it through.
The loop tightens naturally into a neat, almond-shaped petal. I guide it gently so it sits flat and smooth without pulling too tight.
Secure the Petal
To lock that little petal down, I make a tiny straight stitch right over the top point of the loop—just enough to hold it in place without flattening it too much.
- This small tack stitch is what keeps the loop from coming undone.
- I keep it super close, so it blends into the petal naturally.
That’s it! You got your detached stitch.
Detached Chain Stitch Diagram
This diagram graphically illustrates what I just told you above. Seeing it will make the whole thing clearer.
How To Turn Detached Chain Stitch Into Lazy Daisy?
Turning a detached chainstitch into a lazy daisy is actually super easy—because they’re the same stitch! The lazy daisy is just a decorative use of the detached chainstitch arranged in a circular or flower-petal formation.
Here’s how I turn a detached chain-stitch into a lazy daisy:
- I bring my needle up through the fabric where I want the center of the flower to be.
- Take the needle back down just beside the starting point.
- Leave a loop on the surface.
- Bring the needle up at the tip of where I want the petal to end (inside the loop).
- Pull through and make a tiny tack stitch to secure the petal.
Instead of moving forward in a line, I rotate my hoop slightly and repeat the detached chain-stitch again, angling it like a flower petal radiating out from the same center.
- I usually stitch 5–7 petals, depending on the look I’m going for. If I do a detached twisted chain stitch, then I would do four petals.
- I keep the loops evenly spaced in a circular shape.
- I always tack down each loop with a small straight stitch over the tip.
That’s how you got a lazy daisy that everyone is talking about. Looks stunning right?
Detached Chain Stitch Patterns
It’s easy and delicate that I try this on various patterns. Have a look I’m sure you are wanna love this,
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need To Use A Hoop For A Detached Chainstitch?
While not required, an embroidery hoop helps keep the fabric taut so your loops don’t get uneven or sag. It’s especially helpful for beginners.
What Thread Works Best?
Depending on your fabric, you can use cotton embroidery floss, silk thread, or even wool. Most stitchers use 2–3 strands of six-stranded floss for a smooth look.
What Is The Difference Between Chain Stitch And Lazy Daisy Stitch?
Chain-stitch is a continuous line of looped stitches linked together, often used for outlines and borders. A lazy daisy stitch is a type of detached chain-stitch, where each loop is made separately and anchored with a small straight stitch—perfect for creating petal or leaf shapes.
What Is Known As A Detached Chain Stitch Used To Make A Loop Resembling The Petals Of A Flower?
The lazy daisy stitch is commonly used for a detached chain-stitch arranged in a circular pattern to resemble flower petals.
My Final Thought
Honestly, when I first tried detached chain stitch, I didn’t expect to love it this much. But now? It’s one of those stitches I keep returning to—whether I’m stitching petals, leaves, or just adding a little flair to a corner of a design. It’s simple, yes, but it makes everything feel a bit more charming.
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