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Vintage Chainstitch Embroidery
15 January 2026
The first time I saw chainstitch embroidered names in a homewares shop in Venice Beach, I was hooked. Fast forward a few years and I am now the owner of a machine and steal a couple of hours a week to practice my embroidery.
The lettering from this vintage machine is beautiful and completely unique. In fact, it is handwriting that is guided by a hand crank under the table. It is not an easy machine to operate and maintain, even a few years in since I took up the hobby, I have much to learn.
Singer released its popular chainstitch machine in 1911 and was used to monogram names and decorate everything from Western handkerchiefs to workwear like Ford motor uniforms. The lettering it produces looks like cursive handwriting with a distinctly vintage look.
The signage on the buildings in the south of France was great inspiration for connected lettering in a lovely cursive.
My goal is to be good enough to offer this beautiful lettering on some of our products at Namesake.
And I hope others enjoy it too!
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