Smocking > Basic Stitches > Large Florette Smocking Stitch (straight)

Instructions

Start by working three cable stitches, beginning with an down cable.
Take the needle to back of work.
Turn work upside down.
Bring needle up on the left side of the last pleat sewn and
a needles breadth above your last stitch.
Mirror three cables.
Take needle to back of work, take a backstitch and tie off.

Use your needle to align uneven stitches by pushing them into shape.
Always keep your needle parallel to the gathering row and perpendicular to the pleats.
Give a gentle tug upward as you finish the stitch.
Avoid ending off and joining on in the center of the row, as this
usually shows as an uneven stitch. (Use a long piece of thread).
Untwist your thread by holding the fabric up and letting the
needle hang down freely.
Try to keep the depth (bite) of your stitches the same.