How to make the

Rosette of Thorns stitch

The Rosette of thorns stitch is one of the many variations of the traditional blanket stitch. It is basically 5 blanket stitches bunched together at different lengths. It can also be worked to form a fan shaped half circle.

Use a single strand of thread for a delicate look or go all out with 6 strands to make a bulky statement.

This easy stitch lends itself to many variations. In this sample I did a second line in pink just above the first line of this stitch. Note how adding a contrasting color made it pop.

It is a great go-to stitch for borders/edges when you need something that is super easy but still looks really good.

Have a look at my short video demonstration to learn how it is made. Be sure to watch to the end to see all 3 variations of the rosette of thorns stitch demonstrated.

If you are having trouble viewing the video, please click here to view the video on Youtube.

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Step by step

Follow along and you will very soon master the Rosette of thorns stitch.

The rosette of thorns is make up with 5 stitches. Each stitch is a different height to form a pyramid shape when done.

Start by threading your needle with embroidery floss. I used 2 strands of thread in this example. Knot the end of the floss.

Bring your needle up from the back of the fabric, where you want to start your stitch. Make sure the knot is on the backside of the fabric.

Insert your needle back into the fabric, a stitch length away from where you came up but about 2 stitch lengths above it.

Gently pull until there is a small loop left over. Bring the needle up from the back (inside the loop) a stitch length away (to the right) from where your very first stitch is. Pull until a L-shape is formed. This is your first stitch completed.

Repeat the previous stitch, but make it a bit higher than the previous stitch forming a pyramid shape.

Repeat. The 3rd stitch is the highest stitch in the pyramid shape.

Stitch no 4 mirrors the same height as stitch 2. Make small marks on the fabric with a pencil as a guide so that it is the same height if you are having trouble matching the same height as stitch 2.