The embroidery chain stitch provides exactly what it says, the appearance of a chain. This is achieved by "looping" the working thread around the needle, before pulling taut.

This guide for how to do an embroidery chain stitch will show you the exact process for creating a clean and even chain for use as decoration, or as a line or outline on your embroidery.

Usually only one color thread is used for chain stitch, and the thickness will be appropriate for the weight of fabric you are working with.

When sewing an outline, it is usual to use a color that matches the area you are outlining, but when creating a decoration or line chain, you might want to use a contrasting color.

1. Thread about 20 inches of your chosen thread onto your embroidery needle.
2. Push the needle up through your fabric, leaving approximately an inch of thread at the back of your work. This thread will be secured beneath stitches at the back, this avoids unnecessary knots.

1. Loop the working thread in the direction you wish to take your chain and hold with the thumb of your "non-working" hand.
2. Push the needle back down through the original hole and back up a short distance from the original hole, this denotes the length of the link.
3. Pull the thread taut (not tight) and create your first link.

1. Loop the working thread in the direction of your chain. (You may have this already marked on your fabric.)
2. Hold with your thumb and push the needle back into the second hole and up the same distance from that hole as in the first stitch.
3. Continue adding links in this manner until you have achieved the required length of chain.
4. Finish off by pushing the needle through stitches at the back of your work to secure.
5. Snip the thread with your scissors.