Is Satin Stitch Difficult?
I think satin stitch gets a bad reputation for being difficult. As someone who is not a perfectionist, I know that it just takes practice. Don't be scared to go over the stitches if there is a gap, add another stitch in between to fill the gap. Most of the time you will be your own worst critic, and most of the time only you will be able to spot the mistake or the 'not perfect' area.
If your edges aren't perfectly in line with the shape, something that might help is creating a line of back stitch around the shape first. Then create satin stitch on top, this will create a cleaner line around the shape you are trying to fill in satin stitch.
Tips for Satin Stitching
- Maintain even tension, keep your fabric taut and this will help massively to keep your stitches even.
- If you are using a stick and stitch patch, try and keep your satin stitches small, if the stitches are too big, the stitches will distort once placed in water and dried out.
- If you are new to satin stitch, try on a scrap piece of fabric firs, simply draw a circle or a square and fill the shape with satin stitch.
- Always start the stitch on the same side. Do not try and save thread by starting your next stitch next to where you finished the last. This will not create a nice finish.
- Fill in the gaps with more stitches.
If you would like to give it a go and you are not sure where to start, I have a video tutorial on YouTube. There is a free pattern on there and a full guide on how to create satin stitch. Watch here
Happy stitching, and may your embroidery creations shine with the beauty of satin stitches!