Two Meanings of “Knot” in Embroidery
People searching for embroidery knots usually mean one of two things:
- Knot stitches: decorative stitches such as the French knot that create raised dots or texture.
- Knotting off: the practical step of securing the thread at the start or end of stitching.
This article covers both. For the other stitch groups, see our embroidery stitch types guide.
Common Types of Embroidery Knots
French Knot
The best-known knot stitch, a small raised dot used for flower centers, eyes and filled textures. It has a reputation for being tricky, but most problems come down to tension and where the needle goes back in.
- Bring the needle up where you want the knot.
- Hold the thread taut a few inches from the fabric with your non-stitching hand.
- Wrap the thread around the needle once or twice.
- Insert the needle close to, but not into, the original exit hole.
- Keep tension on the wrapped thread while you pull the needle and thread through to the back.
One or two wraps is typical for a standard knot. Many stitchers advise against going beyond three wraps, since larger knots can be unwieldy and may loosen over time. For a bigger knot, using more strands of thread is often an easier option.
Colonial Knot
Similar to the French knot, but the thread is wrapped in a figure-eight around the needle. Many stitchers find it sits more firmly and has a slightly taller shape. Which one is better is a matter of preference.
Bullion Knot
A coiled, worm-like knot. The needle is inserted and brought back up, thread is wrapped around the needle several times, and the coil is pulled snug and laid down. It is often used for rose petals and small flowers. It takes practice.
Other Knotted Stitches
Some line and band stitches have knots built in, such as the Palestrina, coral, scroll and knotted pearl stitches. These make textured lines and are worth exploring once the basics feel comfortable.
Tips for Better French Knots
- Keep the needle still while you wind the thread, rather than twisting your wrist.
- Hold tension on the thread as you pull through.
- Go back in a thread or two away from the exit hole, not in the same hole, or the knot can pull through to the back.
- Use fewer strands for small knots and more for larger ones.
- Practise on scrap fabric first.
How to Knot Off an Embroidery Stitch
Knotting off means securing the thread on the back when you finish. Options include:
Weaving Under Stitches
Slide the needle under several stitches on the back, then trim. It is tidy and avoids lumps, and it is the usual choice for pieces that will be displayed.
Making Small Anchor Stitches
Make two or three tiny stitches in a spot that will be hidden by other stitching, then trim.
Tying a Simple Knot
On the back, slip the needle under a stitch to form a small loop, pass the needle through the loop and pull snug. Repeat once if desired and trim, leaving a short tail. This works well for items that will be handled or washed.
Starting a Thread
A common alternative to a starting knot is a waste knot: knot the thread, enter the fabric from the front a few inches away on the design line, stitch over the thread, then cut off the knot afterward. A tail can also be anchored under early stitches. Loop-start methods work for even strand counts.
Tips for Neat Backs
- Avoid carrying thread across large gaps, as it can show through light fabric.
- Trim tails to a short length so they do not poke through.
- Use matching thread or neutral color to hide anchors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you knot off an embroidery stitch?
Weave the thread under several stitches on the back or tie a small knot against the fabric, then trim.
What are the different types of embroidery knots?
Common ones include the French knot, colonial knot, bullion knot and knotted line stitches such as coral and Palestrina.
What is the forbidden stitch in embroidery?
The name is commonly linked to the Peking or Chinese knot stitch and a story that stitchers lost their eyesight working it. That is folklore. Good lighting and regular breaks matter for any fine work.
Which stitch is called the queen of embroidery?
No official answer exists. The nickname is sometimes applied to satin stitch, and sometimes to others such as stem stitch, so treat it as a matter of opinion.