Braided Chain Stitch (Diagram 1):
Bring the needle up at A, move up over one canvas thread, bring the needle down at B. Be sure to work this small stitch securely, as the next series of stitches will be worked into it. Now, continue on to Diagram 2...
Braided Chain Stitch (Diagram 2):
Beginning where we left off at B, bring the needle up at C, move up over three canvas threads, move under and through the A/B stitch - illustrated in dark blue (do NOT pass the yarn under the canvas thread, work it through the yarn only). Once you have worked the needle through the previous stitch, move the needle down over three canvas threads and bring the needle down at C. It is important to maintain a loose tension in order to create the chain. Now, continue on to diagram 3...
Braided Chain Stitch (Diagram 3):
Beginning where we left off at C, bring the needle up at D, move up over five canvas threads, again, move under and through the A/B stitch - illustrated in dark blue (do NOT pass the yarn under the canvas thread, work it through the yarn only). Once you have worked the needle through the A/B stitch, move the needle down over five canvas threads and bring the needle down at D. Again, it is important to maintain a loose tension in order to create the chain. Now, continue on to diagram 4...
Braided Chain Stitch (Diagram 4):
Beginning where we left off at D, bring the needle up at E, move up over five canvas threads, work the needle/yarn OVER the second chain stitch (D) and work the needle/yarn UNDER the first chain stitch (C) - but NOT under the canvas threads. Move down over five canvas threads and bring the needle down at E. Again, it is important to maintain a loose tension in order to create the chain stitch. Although this sounds a little complicated, if you follow diagram 4 exactly as it is shown, you will see how easy this stitch can be. This diagram does not illustrate the correct thickness of the yarn, so the full effect of this stitch does not appear apparent. When complete, this stitch creates a nice, full look, similar to rich braiding.
