The stitch is called 'fringe.' There are several patterns for sale on Embroiderylibrary.com. I have used the small animals on baby bibs. Cute and the stitches are secure. You might fine some with a google on 'fringe embroidery patterns.'

I've seen some of the "fringe" designs -- especially kids' animals, etc. I'm looking very specifically for a "looped" feather design -- makes it 3-dimensional, but it's not cut fringe threads.

Anyone know where I could have something like that digitized? It would be somewhat unique, although I'm sure it can be done. Specifically I'm trying to get a hat/bonnet design, with about 3 or 4 "feathers" off of it -- but a 3-dimensional type of looped feather design.