Lazy Daisy (Detached Chain Stitch)

The Lazy Daisy Stitch, also known as the detached chain stitch or single chain stitch, is a fun and easy way to add petal-like shapes to your embroidery designs. It's perfect for creating flower motifs, as the stitch mimics the soft curves of petals. Whether you're new to embroidery or looking for a quick decorative touch, this guide will show you how to master the lazy daisy stitch in a few simple steps!

Step 1: Start at the Base

To begin, decide where you want the tip of your petal to be.

Bring your needle up through the fabric at that point.

Step 2: Create the Petal Loop

Next, you'll make the petal loop:

Bring your needle back down through the same hole you came up from, but don’t pull the thread all the way through just yet.
Bring the needle back up at the point where you want the top of your petal to be. Ensure the needle is on the inside of the thread loop you’ve created.

This forms the basic loop that will give your stitch its signature petal shape.

Step 3: Secure the Petal

Now that you have your loop, you need to secure it:

Make a small straight stitch over the top of the loop. This anchors the loop in place and gives the petal its structure.

Step 4: Repeat for More Petals

To create a full flower, repeat the lazy daisy stitch in a circular formation, making sure each stitch begins at the center and forms a petal outward. Once you're done, you’ll have a beautifully simple flower design, just like in the picture!

Tips for Perfect Petals:

Tighter Thread for Sharp Petals: If you want sharper, more defined petals, pull the thread tightly when making your stitch.
Looser Thread for Rounded Petals: For rounded, softer petals, leave the thread loop slightly loose before securing it.

Why You’ll Love the Lazy Daisy Stitch: This stitch is incredibly versatile! It’s perfect for beginners, but even experienced embroiderers love it for its quick and decorative effect. You can experiment by creating multiple petals to form flower shapes or by adjusting the length of the petals for different effects.

Now that you’ve learned the basics, start adding delicate daisy-like flowers to your next embroidery project!