1. Running Stitch
The most basic embroidery stitch that one can learn. This stitch comes in handy to make a quick outline of designs. You can quickly create several stitches in just one continous motion. It is almost simialar to seam stitches.
2. Back Stitch
The back stitch is a great stitch to bring definition and outline in designs. You simply need to finish one stitch forward on the top followed by one below. Once the needle comes to the top just weave it back in from the end of the previous top stitch, repeating the same at the bottom.
3. Split Stitch
The split stitch too is a great stitch to bring definition and outline in designs. Like the back stitch you must start with one top stitch. Instead of repeating a stitch at the bottom, pull the needle up through the middle of the previous stitch from underneath and make another stitch. Continue to form a neat outline. It can be used for filling in designs too.
4. Stem Stitch
The stem stitch like the name suggests is ideal for embroidering designs involving stems of plants etc. It is also a great stitch to bring definition and outline designs. It is quite similar to the split sticth except that the needle is not pulled up through the middle of the stitch itself but beside it.
5. Satin Stitch
This is stitch as the name suggests gives a satin finish to designs that needs to be filled in. Once the design is drawn, the needle simply needs to be flossed from on edge of the design to the oppopsite, back and forth until it is fully filled in. Works beautifully for filling leaves flowers etc.
6. Chain Stitch
The chain stitch is a designer alternative to outlines. It simple requires piercing the tip of the needle through the fabric and looping the thread around its tip before being pulled out completely.
7. Lazy Daisy
The lazy daisy is a varition to the chain stitch. While the chain stitch forms an outline that is curved or straight, the lazy daisy forms the loops or chains in the shape of daisy petals. Ideal for making small floral patterns.
8. Feather Stitch
This is another variation of a chain stitch, which uses the second stitch to anchor the loop of the previous one. This particular chain variation is better when you want to cover more space.
9. Seed Stitch
Bring the needle and floss up through the fabric and create a short, straight stitch. Bring the needle and floss up through the fabric again in a different angle each time.