chain stitch

noun

1. a kind of ornamental hand stitching in which each stitch forms a loop through the forward end of the next.
2. a basic crochet stitch in which yarn is pulled with the crochet hook through a loop on the hook to form a continuous strand of interlocking single loops.
3. a machine stitch forming a chain on the underside of the fabric.

chain stitch

noun

1. an ornamental looped embroidery stitch resembling the links of a chain

verb

1. to sew (something) with this stitch

Word History and Origins

Origin of chain stitch¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

“For the embroidery pattern on the socks, I used a classic chain stitch to spell names, although initials would also work as a less laborious alternative,” Ms. Rocha said.

From New York Times

Mr. Huynh, the store’s in-house hatter, spends most of his days crammed between wooden blocks and weathered chain stitch machines, making, reshaping and repairing hats.

From New York Times

It was Tina who opened up a new element to his work by showing him how to bond felt to material and do chain stitch and blanket stitch.

From BBC

I stood beside her as she traced patterns in chalk on chambray and calico, and I learned to make the wide simple chain stitches to guide the emerging shape of the garment.

From Literature

There are chain stitches, French knots and some even are detailed like small flowers to stitch the fabric together.

From Washington Times