What is the name of this embroidery stitch?

February 2, 2018 10:07 AM

I am working an embroidery kit from 1975 and it tells me to do a tufting stitch that I don't understand at all. Does anyone know what the name of this stitch is so I can look up a video for it? My googling of tufted stitches isn't giving me anything that looks like the stitch the pattern asks for. Here is a link to the pattern instructions on that stitch.
posted by ilovewinter to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (5 answers total)

Best answer: I think they're trying to get you to do a single turkey work stitch, which raises a little tuft of loose thread on the surface of the fabric. So you're doing a fern stitch, then going back over it with the turkey work tufts to make it fuzzy. I think, anyway-- that's what I would do, faced with these directions.
posted by blnkfrnk at 10:31 AM on February 2, 2018 [1 favorite]

Best answer: Yes, turkey work! This tutorial (slightly different stitch, but similar idea) suggests you use a pile brush to get all the clipped ends fuzzy.
posted by zoetrope at 10:34 AM on February 2, 2018 [1 favorite]

Best answer: My goodness! My mother did that kit in the 70s, and it was in my room while I was growing up. If the above tips aren't right, memail me and I'll ask my mother.
posted by Valancy Rachel at 12:51 PM on February 2, 2018 [8 favorites]

Response by poster: Turkey stitch worked! My fern is now getting all fuzzy. Woo! Thanks!
posted by ilovewinter at 1:39 PM on February 2, 2018 [3 favorites]

"My goodness! My mother did that kit in the 70s, and it was in my room while I was growing up. If the above tips aren't right, memail me and I'll ask my mother." Valancy Rachel

This is why I love Metafilter!
posted by TrishaU at 11:28 PM on February 2, 2018 [4 favorites]