Embroidery: blanket stitch, satin stitch, running stitch and lazy daisy
Try these four stitches

Read our beginner's guide to getting started with embroidery, on page 1
On this page you'll find instructions and diagrams for how to do blanket stitch, satin stitch, running stitch and lazy daisy.
See page 2 for how to do back stitch, chain stitch, stem stitch and French knots.
Blanket stitch – decorative edge stitch
Pull needle through to front at 1. Insert needle at 2 and come out again at 3 holding the thread under the needle as you pull the stitch tight.
Satin stitch – used to fill in small areas
Pull needle through to front at 1. Make single straight stitches, inserting the needle at 2 and out again at 3. Keep stitches very close together and continue to fill the area or shape.
Running stitch – the simplest stitch - used for pattern and texture
Insert the needle over and under the fabric at evenly spaced intervals.
Lazy daisy stitch – used to create a flower
Pull needle though to front at 1. Make a loop and insert again right next to 1. Come out again at 2 holding the thread under the needle as you pull tight. Insert the needle at 3 and move onto the next petal.
Illustrations: Terry Evans