Eyelet Stitch

This is a stitch found on canvas work, pulled work and counted work. It is worked on even weave fabric, with the fabric held under tension in a hoop or a frame. It is and made up of stitches arranged in a square. As a filling stitch it creates a regular geometric pattern of blocks which if worked under tension and pulled with each stitch, have a small hole in the center

Often called an “Algerian” eyelet, the most basic of all eyelets contains eight stitches. In this form it can be stitched on Aida as well as linen. All other eyelets must be done on a “thread-count” fabric or canvas. The Algerian Eyelet has stitches only in the four corners, top, bottom and two sides. Other traditional eyelets have stitches between every linen thread surrounding a central hole.

When making many eyelets in one project, you will get the best result by pulling consistently. Many people find that using a tool to poke a hole in the center before beginning helps keep stitches consistent. Antique and reproduction stilettos are available for this task a large tapestry needle is a handy alternative.

Every stitch of every eyelet is made from the outside toward the middle. Think of your needle taking steps around a square, diamond, or circle. Bring your needle from the back of the fabric to the front of the fabric along the outer rim. Put the needle into the hole from the front of the fabric to the back of the fabric

It is best if you work in a single direction, clockwise or counterclockwise, as you stitch an individual eyelet. But every complete eyelet in a project does not have to be stitched in the same direction as the others. Nor does every eyelet have to be started in the same place as all the others in that particular design. One exception is with the “window” or “framed” eyelets. It is best if these eyelet styles are always started next to one of the “window panes” or “crosses” in the center of the eyelet.

Eyelets are often used in “whitework“ which is simply stitching with white fibers on a white linen or canvas. Today, whitework is also done with colors. Match the fiber and fabric colors as closely as possible.

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