Smocking > Basic Stitches > Stem Smocking Stitch (straight)

Instructions

Start by bringing the needle down to the left of the first pleat.
With thread down, pick up the second pleat, inserting the
needle from right to left.
Keep thread down, pick up the next pleat.
Give a gentle upward tug as you finish each stitch.
Keep your tension constant and complete the row.

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.