Ghiordes Knot or Turkey Rug stitch
This stitch produces a series of closely worked loops which are combed cut and trimmed to shape producing a pile which resembles a rug pile or if worked in a very fine manner in a fine wool a soft thick velvet like pile.
Ghiordes knot is also known as Turkey rug knot, single knot tufting, quilt knot stitch, tufted knot stitch, and single knotted Smyrna rug stitch. It is a pile stitch which has traditionally been used in canvas but is enjoying a revival as one of the textured embroidery stitches.
Since Ghiordes knot is a high relief stitch it combines well with other stitches that produce a high texture such as Casalguidi stitch and contrasts well with stitches that are extremely flat such as satin stitch. Many of the canvas stitches since they too are flat work well with Ghiordes knot.
Other interesting contrasts can be discovered by exploring the drawn and pulled family of stitches.
The needle can be loaded with several fine threads and worked at the same time.
Gentle shading can be achieved by using several different coloured threads together.
As you work row upon row of the stitch change the colour of one thread, one at a time so that the colour shifts from one shade to the next.
To work the stitch stretch the fabric in an embroidery hoop or frame as it is important to work this stitch at an even tension.
Secure each loop with a back stitch as illustrated. Each row is worked above the other.
After working all the loops cut, smooth out and trim to desired length. For a smooth pile work row upon row closely packed together.
