The Fern stitch is a crossed needlepoint stitch made of pairs of diagonal stitches that cross each other, worked in vertical columns. Each column looks like a fern frond, with a slightly raised, braided texture. It is commonly used for foliage, grass, mountains and other organic textures.

Stitch Details

• Stitch Structure: Crossed, Knitting, Condensed, Raised, Diagonal
• Related Stitches: Fishbone Stepped Stitch, Herringbone Stitch
• Recommended for: Small areas, Large areas, Flowers, Mountains
• Skill level: Intermediate

Fern Stitch Instructions & Diagram

You can see the diagram of this stitch below.

• Make a diagonal stitch from top left to bottom right, over two canvas intersections.
• Behind the canvas, move the needle one canvas thread to the left, and bring it up to the front.
• Make a diagonal stitch from bottom left to top right, over two canvas intersections, crossing the first one.
• Behind the canvas, move the needle three canvas threads to the left and one down, then bring it up to the front.
• Repeat the process as many times as needed, working down the column.

Tips for a Perfect Fern Stitch

• Always cross in the same order. Keep the same sequence for every pair of stitches, so the "spine" of the fern looks regular all the way down.
• Work column by column. Finish one column from top to bottom before starting the next one beside it.
• Keep a relaxed tension. Crossed stitches can pull the canvas. Even, relaxed stitches keep the raised texture soft and the canvas flat.
• Use the direction of the columns. Vertical fern columns are perfect for grass, plant stems and the slopes of mountains.

Fern vs Herringbone Stitch

• Fern stitch (this page): crossed stitches worked in vertical columns, which look like fern fronds.
• Herringbone stitch: crossed stitches that zigzag along horizontal rows, for a woven, fish-bone pattern.

Fern Stitch FAQ

What is the fern stitch used for?

It's great for foliage, grass, plants, mountains and any organic texture where you want a bit of relief.

Is the fern stitch hard to learn?

It's an intermediate stitch. The movement is simple, but you need to count the threads you move behind the canvas. After a few stitches, it becomes easy and rhythmic.

Is the fern stitch raised?

Yes, slightly. Because the stitches cross, the column has a little relief, which makes it perfect for adding texture to your design.

Stitch Guides where Fern Stitch is used

If you have doubts about what stitches to choose for your project, check our Tips to select Needlepoint Stitches or Our favorite Needlepoint Decorative Stitches.

Happy stitching :)