Definition:

Surface embroidery refers to any embroidery stitch that is worked on the surface of the cloth. There are literally hundreds of embroidery stitches that can be considered surface embroidery.

This form of embroidery has been around since humankind first began stitching designs on fabric, and no one can really claim to have originated this style of ebroidery.

In comparison, drawn thread, cutwork and pulled thread techniques are worked through the fibers of the fabric to create a stitch, rather than having the decorative component of the stitch sitting on the surface of the fabric.


Types of surface embroidery include crewel, cross stitch, redwork and many others.

Also Known As: Freestyle Embroidery