Kreinik Thread Blog: Why couching is cool in needlepoint

Learn how to do couching in needlepoint

Designer of Associated Talents Carol Gantz shows you how to couch Kreinik Ribbon in this quick how-to video. She's working on a Beth Gantz Designs canvas that's fabulous for Christmas,. You can use this technique anywhere. If you've never tried couching, let this be the encouragement you need to start — it's so versatile, you'll become addicted to this embellishment stitch.

Why do we love couching so much?

You can use any fiber. You're not limited to fibers that fit your needle or your fabric/canvas. You can couch ribbons, interesting threads, anything since it's simply a surface embellishment.
It's a fast way to fill in a large background
Adds interesting borders that look high-end and complicated
You can use different kinds of stitches to couch, making even more interesting designs

Couching is great for adding highly textured threads like Kreinik Micro Ice Chenille to designs; it's perfect for bug antennae

Couching tips

Keep your tacking stitches evenly spaced
Keep your base fiber, the one you're couching, laid smoothly, evenly, without buckles
Plunge the ends of your base fiber, the one you're couching, to the back of your work and secure with tacking stitches. Use a large Tapestry needle or an awl to help open the holes.
Another helpful video, from Mary Corbet: https://youtu.be/4X4LC8FGAsM