I love the idea of a 3d effect on detached chainstitch. So, I searched for another form style for a 3D pattern in my embroidery. That’s when I found the raised chain band stitch. This stitch is a row of chain loops over straight stitches. It has a raised look, works great in stumpwork, and looks awesome with contrasting threads.
The stitching process of this stitch is also easy. You just gotta do,
Raised Chain
To do a raised chain band stitch by hand, make a row of straight stitches and then work chain stitches over them, looping through each to create a raised effect.
Reading the technique feels so easy, so I decided to try it correctly.
Table of Contents
Raised Chain Band Stitch By Hand
Raised chain stitch is an amazing stitch form. The most fun fact about it is that you can control its thickness. The thickness is based on the thread stands you use. For example,
- 1 strand = Very fine, delicate like regular chainstitch
- 2 strands = Light but visible
- 3 strands=Medium thickness
- 4 strands=Noticeably thicker
- 5 strands = Quite thick,
- 6 strands = Thick and bold
Since I am practicing, I will use 2-strand thread for now. I have my thread now; let’s get into the stitching.
Draw 2 Lines
This stitch creates a raised bar between two lines of running stitches—and trust me, keeping things straight can be a little tricky! That’s why I always start by drawing two parallel lines, about 2 inches apart.
Next,
I mark tiny dots along both lines to guide my stitches. I leave about 1 inch of space between each dot. These little markers help me stay even and consistent throughout! You can try it for Twisted chain stitch.
Put The Needle In From The Left Line Dot
Now that your lines and dots are ready, it’s stitching time! Start by inserting your needle at the first dot on the left line.
Start with the right at that tiny guide dot. Pull the needle through, and you’re ready for the next step!
Put The Needle In & Out Through The Right Line & Bring Out The Left Line
Take your needle and poke it into the first dot on the right line across from where you started. But don’t stop there.
Slide your needle underneath and bring it back up through the next dot on the left line at 180 degree angle. This creates a neat little bridge across the two lines. See? Now keep stitching until you reach the end of line.
Insert The Needle In The Middle Of The Line
Now, bring your needle up right in the center between the two lines, between those first two stitches you just made.
Push the needle from behind the fabric and pull it until it locks like a heavy chain stitch pattern.
Slide The Needle Through 1st Stitch Line
Gently slide your needle under the very first straight stitch on the left line.
Don’t poke through the fabric. Just slide it underneath the stitch & pull the needle.
Then slide the needle back from the other side, put the thread under the needle, and pull it. That will create the raised effect. Honestly, this looks better than the cable chain stitch pattern.
Now, Repeat The Whole Process Until The End.
Keep sliding your needle under each straight stitch, forming a neat loop every time. Follow the same rhythm—in, out, loop, pull—until you reach the last stitch.
You’ll see a beautifully raised chain form.
Raised Chain Band Stitch Pdf
The stitching technique seems easy. But when you want to do it practically you may feel lost. That’s when this pdf will help you out.
Raised Chain Band Stitch Embroidery
If the simple raised chain stitch looks beautiful to you, you will fall in love with its embroidery. Here, have a look. This is pretty like butterfly chain stitch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it beginner-friendly?
It’s best for intermediate stitchers, but ambitious beginners can absolutely try it with a bit of practice. The key is keeping your tension even and not pulling too tight.
How do I keep the foundation bars even?
Use a ruler or marking pen to draw the placement lines on your fabric lightly. Try to space the bars evenly and keep them straight.
That’s It
So, yes, that’s how raised chain band stitch works. What do you think about it? Will you try it now? If you do, then share your experience with us.
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