Introduction: How to Do the Ghiordes Knot [Turkey Work] in Hand Embroidery

As you will see from my finished Santa, I used the Ghiordes Knot [Turkey Work] do make his beard and his Santa Hat Pom Pom really fully and wonderful. 

In this Instructable I will show you how you can also do this.

It seems like a lot of steps but honestly, once you get the hang of it, it really is simple. [Perhaps I was a bit detailed, this is my first instructable but I hope it helps.]

This stitch will surly add a bit of dimensional flair to your hand Embroidery projects, so enjoy!!

I have put the instructions on each photo. Hope you'll all be able to see them.

Step 1:

Thread your needle. Remember you do not want to put a knot on the end.

Step 2:

The two photos here show you how to bring the needle down from the top of your hoop and keep you tail. 

In this example I made my tail and loops larger then usual but I think, it is better to be bigger and have more to work with then fall short. *smiles*

Step 3:

***sorry for the typo in photo on the right - it should read: You will NOW begin to make loops

You will now learn how to hold your tail in place and NOW start creating your loops.

Step 4:

Step 5:

Step 6:

Step 7:

Step 8:

And here is my most recent finished project where I used this technique. Santa's beard & his Pom Pom on his hat.  This is on a tea towel that I plan to give as a gift. 

Hope you will use this and make something special. <3

~ Jennifer Rene