Cross stitch, Needlecraft and Embroidery Glossary: Jacobean Couching to Jubilee

This is an easily worked decorative stitch best worked in a square area. Lay the threads to be couched diagonally across the fabric at intervals first all in one direction and then all in the other diagonal, weaving over and under the first set to help them stay in place. Then couch down the threads with a small upright cross stitch over each intersection as shown in the diagram. If a curved area needs to be worked, draw a square and count the diagonals off the straight edge. Similarly if counting around an object count across it carefully to be sure that you keep the diagonals in line with each other.

This is normally worked in two colours. Starting at lower right work six diagonal stitches upwards across two intersections, then work five to the left also across two intersections. Continue zigzagging in this way. The second row is worked in tent stitch following the previous row exactly.

This is worked as shown in the diagram with alternate rows of diagonal stitches over four and two intersections.

Work the horizontal rows first, then connect those with the diagonal stitches.

A sloping satin stitch which is worked from top left to botton right.