How to embroider a
French knot
The French knot is used to make dimensional dots or to add a bit of texture to a design. It is an easy yet versatile stitch that can be used to enhance your embroidery in many ways.
It’s a good idea to first practice on a scrap of fabric in order to get your hand used to the twisting motion before you start.
Watch my short video to see a how a French knot is made.
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Step by step
Follow along and you will very soon master the French knot. Be sure to read the written instructions (below pics) for extra little tips to make things crystal clear.
- To start, thread your needle with the desired color of thread and then tie a knot at the end. Use thicker thread (or more strands) to bulk up the knots.
- Bring the needle up from the back of the fabric and gently pull until you feel the knot you’ve made at the end of the thread catching at the back.
- Pinch the loop of thread (about 4-5 fingers away from the fabric) between the thumb and forefinger of your left hand creating gentle tension. While holding on the thread with your left hand wrap the thread around the needle two or three times.
- To finish the knot, insert the tip of the needle back into the fabric (keeping the thread tension) right next to the spot you pulled it out from. Gently pull on the thread that you have been holding with your left hand so that the knot slips down the needle up against the fabric. Push the needle in and pull gently from the bottom of the fabric until the knot tightens and the loop of thread disappears.
Examples of how the French knot stitch can be used:
Loose French knot
Try this fun French knot variation. It is the perfect way to make use of your imperfect practice knots!
Watch the video below to see how easy it is to make something quirky and fun.
Patterns with french knots:
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