Scotch Stitch: A Simple Needlepoint Technique

You might know Scotch stitch as Cushion, Chequer or Scottish. The names relate to the same needlepoint stitch, and are used interchangeably.

To be more accurate this is a stitch formation, as it consists of individual stitches arranged in a certain way to give the effect of a square area on the needlepoint canvas.

It is super easy to work, as shown by the diagram and instructions below.

To give the best effect, choose a needlepoint yarn that comfortably fills the holes, without leaving any bare canvas showing.

Tapestry wool would work for example on a 10 or 12 count canvas, whereas a finer yarn would work best on an 18 count base.

How to Work the Basic Scotch Stitch Square

Alternating Scotch Stitch

Although the combination of stitches is worked in the same manner, the direction of each alternate block can vary, giving the effect shown in the photograph above, which is commonly known as Alternating Scotch Stitch.

As I was stitching an area to represent paving slabs for this project, I used multiple strands of different colored fine crewel wool in the needle at the same time, for some of the squares.

The effect of having the stitches in each square go in alternate directions is highlighted if you use a shiny or lustrous fiber.

The pinky sample was stitched in a variegated rayon embroidery thread on an evenweave fabric.

Rayon gives a shiny effect to your stitches

Chequer Stitch

By stitching each alternate grouping in a different color you get a checkerboard effect (which perhaps explains the Chequer Stitch name).

I have used this variation in the past to represent a quilt in a needlepointed picture of a child's bedroom, but sadly did not think to take a photograph at that time.

Chequer stitch worked in a single colour

Framed Scotch Stitch

A similar effect is achieved when you work a scotch stitch block followed by one done in continental stitch, as shown in the photograph, which was stitched in stranded cotton floss on evenweave.

You can stitch the blocks so that the long stitches all go in the same direction, as I have done, or in alternate directions.

This results in a lovely textured effect, with this combination of stitches.

Surrounding each square with tent or continental stitch gives us Framed Scotch Stitch.

Framed scotch stitch, using continental tent stitch

Ready to Stitch?

I hope you will try this needlepoint stitch in one of your projects. It's one of those wonderfully versatile stitches that looks impressive but is satisfyingly simple to work.

Some of the designs in my Textures to Dye For downloadable patterns include this stitch.