dentées

Dentées are a type of decorative stitch used in needlework, embroidery, and textile arts to create a scalloped or jagged edge effect. The term originates from the French word *dentée*, meaning "toothed" or "serrated," which describes the appearance of the finished stitches. This technique is often employed to add texture, contrast, or a playful border to fabric, garments, or home décor items.

The basic dentée stitch involves creating a series of small, evenly spaced loops or knots along a line, giving the illusion of teeth or scallops. It can be worked in a variety of ways, including the *long-and-short stitch*, *stem stitch*, or *chain stitch*, depending on the desired look and difficulty level. The stitch is particularly versatile, as it can be adapted to different thread weights, fabric types, and project scales, from fine lacework to bold, textured appliqués.

Historically, dentées have been used in traditional embroidery, particularly in European and Asian textile traditions, where they often appeared in heirloom garments, church vestments, and decorative panels. In modern crafting, the stitch remains popular among fiber artists, quilters, and textile enthusiasts for its ability to add visual interest without requiring advanced skill. It is frequently combined with other stitches, such as satin stitch or French knots, to create intricate patterns or dimensional designs.

While dentées are commonly associated with hand embroidery, variations of the technique can also be found in machine embroidery and cross-stitch, where digital designs replicate the scalloped effect. The stitch’s simplicity and adaptability make it accessible to both beginners and experienced stitchers, contributing to its enduring presence in textile arts.