Classification of Core Traditional Embroidery Stitches
Straight Stitches: Includes straight stitch and even straight stitch; forms shapes using vertical lines with neat edges-the most fundamental traditional stitches.
Curved/Coiling Stitches: Includes couching, stem stitch, and spiral stitches; ideal for rendering curved forms like water ripples and clouds.
Layering/Blending Stitches: Originating in the Tang Dynasty, this category includes single, double, and scattered layering stitches; known for natural color blending, these are the core stitches of Su embroidery.
Specialized Traditional Stitches: Includes long-and-short stitch, French knots (seed stitch), woven stitches, and radiating stitches; used to create diverse textures and patterns.
Common Basic Stitches in Modern Hand Embroidery
Basic Line Stitches:Running stitch, backstitch (outlining), outline stitch, and straight stitch; suitable for defining pattern contours.
Filling & Texture Stitches:Satin stitch (color filling), fishbone stitch (leaves), herringbone stitch, and chain stitch; used to fill large areas and render leaf textures.
Decorative Stitches: French knots (flower centers), bullion stitch (roses), lazy daisy stitch, and spiderweb rose stitch; often used for accents like flower centers or creating dimensional floral motifs.
Special Effect Stitches: Random stitch (light and shadow effects), blanket stitch (edge finishing), and dimensional leaf stitches; used to create unique lighting, shading, and 3D effects.