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Lesson 4.3

Butterfly Embroidery: Rhinestone Chain Wing Outlines

In this lesson, you will practise attaching rhinestone chain to the lower and upper butterfly wings. You will follow the pattern carefully, placing stitches across the chain and close to each crystal. Beads or pearls may be used as an alternative.

Learning Outcomes


By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Position rhinestone chain along a wing outline.

  • Secure the chain with closely placed stitches.

  • Follow curves without straying beyond the guideline.

  • Trim the chain and reinforce its end with several stitches.

  • Substitute beads or pearls where preferred.

Materials to Prepare

  • Embroidery frame with your butterfly in progress

  • Embroidery hook and thread

  • Fine rhinestone chain

  • Suitable chain cutters

  • Beads or pearls as an optional alternative

  • Scissors

Your Practice


Make a starting lock on the lower wing and position the rhinestone chain beside it. Pass the thread across the chain, then make a stitch close to the crystal. Repeat along the wing’s contour, keeping the chain aligned with the drawn line.


At the end of the outline, trim the excess chain and secure the final crystal with several stitches.


Repeat on the upper wings, beginning at the indicated corner. If you prefer, follow the same outlines with beads or pearls instead of chain.

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