I recently finished designing a new embroidery pattern featuring three cacti in hanging baskets — and it quickly became one of my favourites. Not just because it’s fun to stitch and looks lovely in a hoop, but because it gives you the perfect chance to practise your chain stitch.
If you’re new to embroidery or want to build confidence with one of the most versatile hand stitches out there, this pattern is a great place to start.
Why Focus on Chain Stitch?
The chain stitch is one of those classic hand embroidery techniques that every stitcher should know. It’s ideal for creating neat outlines, textured details and decorative lines. In this design, the chain stitch is used to create the hanging baskets, giving them a lovely, woven look that contrasts beautifully with the soft shapes of the cacti.
What I love most about chain stitch is how beginner-friendly it is once you get the hang of it. It has a steady rhythm, and once you start, it’s actually quite relaxing.
About the Hanging Cacti Pattern
This downloadable design features three playful cactus plants in hanging baskets, each with its own shape and personality. The overall look is modern, minimal and perfect for displaying in a hoop — or stitching onto something personal (more on that below!).
While the cacti themselves use simple stitches like backstitch and satin stitch, the baskets are stitched entirely in chain stitch. They’re the focus of this project and a great way to build muscle memory for your stitching.
👉 You can find the full pattern in my Etsy shop here.
How to Do Chain Stitch (Step-by-Step)
If you’ve never done chain stitch before, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started:
What you’ll need:
- Embroidery floss (2–3 strands recommended)
- A medium embroidery needle (size 7 or 8)
- Fabric with your pattern transferred
- An embroidery hoop
How to chain stitch:
- Bring your needle up through the fabric at Point A.
- Insert it back down very close to that same point — don’t pull all the way through, just leave a small loop on the surface.
- Bring the needle back up at Point B, a short distance along the design line. Catch the loop with your needle.
- Pull the thread gently until the loop lies flat — this is your first chain.
- To continue, repeat the process: insert the needle just next to where you came up (Point B), leave a loop, and come up again.
- To finish the line, make a tiny stitch over the last loop to secure it.
💡 Top tip: Keep your tension even for the neatest results, and try stitching slowly at first to get the motion right.
Where to Use This Design
This pattern looks lovely in a hoop, but it’s also perfect for adding a personal touch to your own items — think tote bags, denim jackets, cushion covers, or even a handmade gift. It’s a great way to personalise something simple using hand stitching.
Final Thoughts
Embroidery is one of those crafts that rewards slow practice — and the chain stitch is a great place to begin. If you’re looking for a calming yet creative project, this design lets you practise your chain stitch while making something truly display-worthy.
I’d love to see your version of this pattern! If you stitch it, feel free to tag me on Instagram or share your hoop in the reviews section.