The bullion knot or stitch adds texture and interest to many types of stitching. Although it may seem a bit intimidating for those new to embroidery, it really is not difficult and with a bit of time and practice it isn't too hard to master. Many books recommend using a milliner's needle to make bullion knots. These needles are more uniform in the diameter of the needle shaft and eye, so that it's easier to pull through the coils.

The first step after bringing the needle through the fabric is to insert the needle a short distance through the fabric.

Next, wrap the thread around the needle several times - so the wraps on the needle are the same length as the fabric the needle has been inserted into. (Don't make them too small when you are learning. 5-6 wraps is a good place to start.)

Next, as you hold the loops with your left thumb, pull the needle through the loops towards the right.

When the thread is pulled through and the loops lie evenly, draw the needle into the same hole where it was brought up.

There are many ways to vary the bullion knot to add interest. For example, the the number of coils can either fills out the length so it lies flat, or extra coils can be added so the bullion knot is curved a bit.

Try using two colors of threads or increasing the thickness of the thread or add more strands to make thicker bullion knots.

Bullion knot roses are a common use of bullion knots. After stitching one or two bullion in the middle, the bullion knots are encircled by overlapping bullion knots. The outer bullion knots will be progressively longer. The knots have a few extra coils so they are able to curve around the inner sections.

Bullion knots can also form other objects such as vegetables.

A few examples with bullion knots used as textures in various ways:

Bullion knots are also often used as ears in stumpwork figures.

Give them a try! They are great additions to many types of needlework.

For another description, check Sharon B's bullion knot.