Cretan Stitch
Cretan stitch is also known as Persian stitch and long-armed feather stitch. When worked in a straight vertical line it is also known as quill stitch. For centuries women on the island of Crete, have used this stitch to decorate clothing. Hence the name.
Cretan stitch can be worked in an open with the stitches spaced apart, or closed with the stitches close together. When worked closed a plait forms down the centre of the shape.
Cretan stitch can be worked along two parallel lines or within a shape which is often seen in Crewel embroidery. Contemporary needleworkers can create different effects by altering the slant of the needle and the amount of fabric picked up.
To work Cretan stitch bring the needle up through the fabric at the beginning of the line being worked, move along slightly and on the line make a small stitch by taking the needle through the fabric, while pointing the needle to the centre of the design and keeping the thread under the needle. Bring the needle out after making this small stitch. Move to the lower line and repeat the action. Make sure that with each small stitch the thread is caught under the needle before the needle pulls the thread through. Continue working across the design until the shape or line is filled.
Cretan Stitch Family.
There are many variations to Cretan stitch those listed here are Open Cretan Stitch and Knotted Cretan Stitch.
