The Gobelin stitch is a straight needlepoint stitch worked vertically over two or more canvas threads, side by side in rows. It covers large areas quickly, creates a smooth, ribbed texture that looks like woven tapestry, and is one of the easiest decorative stitches to learn after the tent stitch.

Stitch Details

• Stitch Structure: Flat, Parallel, Straight, Bargello
• Related Stitches: Long Stitch, Rep Stitch
• Also Known as: Upright Gobelin Stitch, Straight Gobelin Stitch
• Recommended for: Small areas, Large areas, Backgrounds
• Skill level: Beginner

Where does the name "Gobelin" come from?

The stitch is named after the Gobelins Manufactory in Paris, famous for its woven tapestries. Rows of upright Gobelin stitches imitate the ribbed look of those woven tapestries. That tapestry look is what made it a needlepoint classic.

Gobelin Stitch Instructions & Diagram

You can see the diagram of this stitch below.

• Secure your thread on the back of the canvas with a small waste knot or by running it under existing stitches.
• Decide how long you want each stitch to be. Gobelin is usually worked over 2 to 6 canvas threads. In this example we work over 2 threads.
• Bring the needle up from the back to the front where you want to start.
• Count 2 canvas threads straight up and take the needle down to the back.
• Come up again in the hole right next to your starting point, on the bottom row, and repeat.
• Keep every stitch the same length so the row stays even. Work the next row directly above or below, sharing the holes of the previous row.

Tips for a Perfect Gobelin Stitch

• Watch the coverage. Straight stitches can let the canvas peek through between rows. If that happens, use a slightly thicker thread or add one more strand.
• Keep an even, relaxed tension. Pulling too tight makes the stitches thin and exposes the canvas.
• Keep stitches short on things you use. On cushions, bags and other items that get handled, stay over 2 to 4 threads. Long stitches can snag.
• Let your thread hang free every few stitches so it doesn't twist. Untwisted thread lies flatter and covers better.

Gobelin Stitch Variations

Once you have the upright Gobelin, these variations are easy next steps:

• Slanted Gobelin: the same stitch worked on a diagonal, which covers the canvas better.
• Encroaching Gobelin: rows overlap by one thread, giving soft blended shading.
• Filling Gobelin: stitches are offset row to row, like bricks.
• Tied Gobelin and Knotted Gobelin: long stitches held down with a small tie stitch, for a raised texture.

When to Use the Gobelin Stitch

Gobelin is ideal for horizontal bands of colour: landscapes, stripes, borders, skies and water. It works up much faster than tent stitch, so it's a great choice for large backgrounds. Because it follows a straight grid, it is also the base of most Bargello patterns.

Gobelin Stitch FAQ

Is the Gobelin stitch good for beginners?

Yes. It is a single straight stitch repeated in rows, so it is one of the first decorative stitches we recommend after learning the tent stitch.

How many canvas threads should a Gobelin stitch cover?

Usually between 2 and 6. Shorter stitches are sturdier and cover better. Longer stitches work up faster and show off the thread's sheen.

What is the difference between upright and slanted Gobelin?

Upright Gobelin is vertical and goes straight up over the canvas threads. Slanted Gobelin also moves one thread sideways, so it lies on a diagonal and covers the canvas more completely.

What is the difference between Gobelin and Long stitch?

Both are straight stitches. Gobelin keeps every stitch the same length in neat rows, while Long stitch varies the length freely to fill shapes.

Stitch Guides where Gobelin Stitch is used

Happy stitching :)