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

The first embroidery stitch María Méndez Rodríguez learned at the age of 7 was the chain stitch.

From The Verge • Feb. 12, 2022

Characteristic and most beautiful use is made of buttonhole stitch in the piece of Indian work in Illustration 24, where it is outlined with chain stitch, which goes most perfectly with it.

From Art in Needlework A Book about Embroidery by Buckle, Mary

Open chain stitch makes a good broad line; it looks best when worked with a stout thread.

From Embroidery and Tapestry Weaving by Christie, Grace

This machine gives a chain stitch sufficiently firm to resist a pull in the direction of the length of the pieces, but giving readily to a pull at the end of the thread.

From The Dyeing of Cotton Fabrics A Practical Handbook for the Dyer and Student by Beech, Franklin

Of Greek short and long stitch, and chain stitch and appliqu� embroidery, there are specimens of the third or fourth century B.C. preserved in the Hermitage at St. Petersburg.

From Arts and Crafts Essays by Members of the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society by Various