Detached Buttonhole Stitch

Detached Buttonhole Stitch is a variant of buttonhole stitch in which a floating stitch is created by stitching rows of buttonhole stitches. It is a filling stitch with which a solid area is created in an closely embroidered design. As the name suggests, this stitch is formed by working it into itself and not into the fabric. It looks like another layer of fabric over the fabric which is taken as base. Most commonly this stitch is projected in stump work and needle lace because it adds a beautiful texture to the fabric.

 

Before starting with this stitch, it is important to stretch the chosen fabric with an embroidery hoop. Back stitch or chain stitch can be used as foundation stitches to attach buttonhole stitch. A row of these stitches should be laid before beginning with detached buttonhole stitch. This stitch is worked from left to right without inserting the needle into the base fabric.

A tapestry needle or a blunt ended needle is most suitable for working this stitch and to avoid the piercing of needle into the foundation stitch thread.  A firm thread should be used to get desired results and make sure the stitches are close to each other. Stitching should continue row by row until the shape is filled. For creating a neat edge, the last or final row should be stitched tightly. This edge can be secured by stitching small straight stitches to the fabric.

This stitch is worked to create hook eyelets and decorative raised thread patterns. It can be worked over foundation threads or ribbons. This stitch is often used in cut out work to link two patterns together. The finished stitch makes a long bar of embroidery. It is also called the buttonhole bar.