chain stitch

American  

noun

1. a kind of ornamental hand stitching in which each stitch forms a loop through the forward end of the next.

2. a basic crochet stitch in which yarn is pulled with the crochet hook through a loop on the hook to form a continuous strand of interlocking single loops.

3. a machine stitch forming a chain on the underside of the fabric.

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chain stitch British  

noun

1. an ornamental looped embroidery stitch resembling the links of a chain

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verb

1. to sew (something) with this stitch

Etymology

Origin of chain stitch

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

Chain stitch ought to be done rather loosely, as working on it afterwards contracts it, and is apt to give it a puckered appearance.

From The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness A Complete Hand Book for the Use of the Lady in Polite Society by Hartley, Florence

Chain stitch also was much used on early English embroidery; to such an extent that it is now of great service as an identification mark to fix the dates of medieval needlework.

From Quilts Their Story and How to Make Them by Webster, Marie D. (Marie Daugherty)

Chain stitch resembles Tambour work, which we shall describe amongst framework stitches, though it is not at present practised at this School.

From Handbook of Embroidery by Alford, Marianne Margaret Compton Cust, Viscountess

Chain stitch is universal, and one of the most ancient of stitches.

From Embroidery and Tapestry Weaving by Christie, Grace

Chain stitch was dignified by the Latin name opus anglicanum.

From Quilts Their Story and How to Make Them by Webster, Marie D. (Marie Daugherty)