Barb Stitch
a member of the buttonhole family
Barb stitch creates an ornamental line with a ridge down the center.
Barb stitch is a composite stitch because in order to work it two foundation rows of buttonhole stitch are sewn closely together with the loops of the buttonhole stitch arranged back to back.
With a second thread, using a blunt-ended tapestry needle, so that the foundation threads do not split whip the loops as illustrated.
It is an easy and quick stitch which makes it an ideal choice for children and beginners as they will be able to sew projects quickly and gain a sense of achievement and satisfaction yet Barb stitch is versatile stitch and has many contemporary applications in needlework for the more skilled stitcher.
The thread used to whip can be of a contrasting colour, texture or thickness to the thread used for the foundation rows. Metallic yarns can create a rich effect. You can use the buttonhole rows to couch down textured threads, then whip the spine with another thread creating a heavy textured line.
Barb stitch can be worked in a single line, or sew in a uniform manner and repeat rows to create a border. As stitch it lends itself to creating patterning. Different arrangements of the rows can build up interlocking patterns to create interesting needlework fillings. it is also a stitch that can be sewn on a curve. Worked in a free manner the stitch takes on an organic feel. This nature can be exploited in floral designs and patterns.
Buttonhole family:
There are many other stitches that are classified in this group. The stitches that I have listed here in the Buttonhole family are:
- Barb stitch
- Berwick stitch
- Bonnet stitch
- Buttonhole Bar
- Buttonhole wheel
- Closed Buttonhole stitch
- Closed Feather stitch
- Crossed Buttonhole stitch
- Detached buttonhole stitch
- Feather stitch
- Rosette of thorns
- Up and Down Buttonhole
- Up and Down buttonhole feathered
