The whipped running stitch is a quick and easy way to outline a shape, giving texture to the line and producing a twisted cord effect. You can either use the same color thread, or a contrast — even use different weights of threads for different effects. Use a metallic gold or silver for weaving thread to add some quick and easy bling to your embroidery project. This is also called the Cordonnet stitch.
It is part of the line stitch embroidery family and is a simple and quick stitch to work, but can add visual interest to your embroidery project. It is perfect for stitching monograms.
A line of running stitches is whipped with a second thread from top of the stitch down, weaving through the running stitches, not picking up any of the base fabric. Shorter running stitches and heavier threads enhance the twisted texture of this stitch. The whipped thread does not stitch through your fabric, but is woven through the running stitches.
The whip stitch is also used in sewing, knitting and crochet projects. In sewing projects, the needle goes in and out of the fabric to stitch two fabrics together. It is often used to close gaps or for mending.
How to Stitch the Whipped Running Stitch
The whipped running stitch is also known as the Cordonnet stitch. It is a variation of the running stitch and is perfect for beginners looking for a line stitch that is full of texture. It can be stitched in multiple colors of thread.
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Materials
- Embroidery floss or thread of your choice
- Fabric for your embroidery project
Tools
- Embroidery hoop
- Embroidery needle suitable for your thread
- Tapestry needle with dull point for the whip stitch
- Embroidery scissors
Instructions
- Begin by marking your line or shape. Outline the shape or stitch the line with a basic running stitch. Use your embroidery needle to do a basic running stitch. Insert your needle at A and up at B. Continue like this for your line or around your shape.
- Here is a line of running stitch, just waiting for embellishment!
- Now you are ready to whip a 2nd thread in and around your running stitch. Switch to a tapestry needle. You can use the same thread, or a contrasting or coordinating thread.
TIP: Use a tapestry needle that has a dull point for the whipping to make it easy to slide the thread in and out of the running stitches.
Come up with your 2nd thread about mid point below the first stitch in your row or shape. See A below.
- Then, take your needle and thread it through the top of the next running stitch, from top to bottom. You can see I’m using a contrasting thread.
- Continue to weave your 2nd thread from the top to the bottom through all of your running stitches on your line or shape.
- Here is the finished sample of the first line of the whipped running stitch, with a blue stitch wrapped in an orange pearl cotton.
- Here is another sample using three rows of running stitch close together to give a different effect.
- Here are both sample stitches, showing how it can be varied by size of running stitch and using multiple lines.
Recommended Products
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Valdani Perle Cotton Embroidery Thread Size 8 Vintage Hues Collection -
Bohin Tapestry Hand Needles, Size 22/24/26 6/Pkg -
Bohin Crewel Embroidery Needles, Size 7, 15 Per Package -
kai 5 1/2 inch Embroidery Scissors, Black Handle -
Caydo 6 Pieces Embroidery Hoop Set Bamboo Circle Cross Stitch Hoop Ring 4 inch to 10 inch for Embroidery and Cross Stitch
Here is another sample of the whipped running stitch using the same color thread and contrasting threads.
Check out all of the embroidery projects on Create Whimsy!
You might also enjoy the laced running stitch and the laced double running stitch.
