A surface embroidery stitch used primarily for thread painting and shading. The first row alternates long and short stitches to create an uneven edge. Subsequent rows use stitches of equal length that pierce the threads of the previous row, blending the colors together without a visible break.
Use a long and short stitch to blend the dark blue thread into the lighter edges of the petals.
The name is a bit misleading: only the very first row uses alternating lengths. Every row after that uses stitches of the same length, staggered by the uneven foundation.
Related terms
Running stitch
A basic sewing stitch made by passing the needle in and out of the fabric at regular intervals.
Seed stitch
A textured knitting pattern created by alternating single knit and purl stitches horizontally and vertically.
Backstitch
A strong hand-sewing stitch that overlaps itself to create a continuous, durable line.