Wrapped Spider Web Stitch
The wrapped spider web stitch is a round embroidery stitch in which you first make spokes and then wind the thread around them. This creates a small woven wheel with clear texture.
Hoe maak je deze steek?
1Draw a circle with 9 points on the fabric. Also mark a point in the centre of the circle.
2Now embroider a wheel-shaped pattern by making 9 stitches, or spokes. Bring the needle up through a point from underneath, then take it down from above through the centre of the circle.
3Thread your weaving thread through a blunt, sturdy needle. A tapestry needle is a good option.
4Insert the needle between two spokes and bring the weaving thread up.
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Pass the needle under the first spoke.
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Now pass the needle under the first and second spokes.
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Then pass the needle under the second and third spokes, then under the third and fourth, and so on. Continue until the entire stitch has been wrapped.
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Variation tip: Of course, you can experiment with more or fewer spokes!
⚠ Common mistakes
- Making too few spokes, which makes the circle angular.
- Wrapping the thread too tightly, which makes the wheel lie flat or pull out of shape.
- Failing to work around evenly, which creates gaps between the rounds.
Definition
The wrapped spider web stitch begins with a star of straight stitches radiating from one centre point as spokes. You then weave the working thread alternately under the spokes without repeatedly piercing the fabric. A round, compact, raised disc grows from this. Depending on the colour, thread and number of rounds, it can resemble a small rose, flower centre, berry, button or woven accent.
When to use it
Use this stitch for round flowers, small roses, buds, dots and texture in botanical embroidery. It also makes a lovely small relief in a decorative border. Choose it when you want a shape that clearly sits above the fabric. Wool or several strands create a fuller effect; fine thread produces a subtler, refined circle on a calm background.
Common mistakes
Spokes that are not roughly the same length create a crooked or angular circle. Pulling the weaving thread too tightly draws the shape inwards and loses its soft volume. Too many rounds make the detail heavy and can hide the base threads. Also consider the number of spokes: with an odd number, the thread naturally alternates correctly over and under the spokes.
Practical tips
First mark a small centre point and make the spokes evenly around it. Use a blunt needle when weaving so you do not split the base threads. Lay the thread loosely beside the previous round without leaving a gap. Stop occasionally and shape the circle with your needle. Practise a small rose on scrap fabric before embroidering several in a pattern.
