People often use back stitch alongside cross stitch to define a clean, neat line in a design. It is classified as a linear stitch because you can create lines with it! Back stitch is an old adaptable stitch. You can use it as a delicate outline or as a foundation in composite stitches, such as Pekinese stitch. It is also a great stitch to whip or thread with a heavier yarn. You can add beads to it too!
If you want to work blackwork patterns using hand-dyed or variegated threads, use back stitch. Many blackwork patterns can be very effective when worked this way, and the changing colours add a contemporary touch to a traditional style of hand embroidery.
Some people call it a basic stitch, as it is always introduced to beginners. But I feel people underestimate its versatility, which ensures its timeless appeal to generations of stitchers. For instance, in this sample (click to see a larger version), I have used back stitch to define the lines of the sand. Set against the highly textured embroidery, the simple ‘basic’ stitch creates the contrast I wanted.
If needed, mark your line with a quilter’s pencil or soluble pen or pencil. Bring the thread up from the back of the fabric on the line that you want to create. Make a small backward stitch through the fabric.
Bring the needle through the fabric a little in front of the first stitch and still on the line. Pull the thread through the fabric.
Make the second stitch backward by inserting the needle down into the hole made by the first stitch, and bring the needle out just in front of the second stitch, but still on the line. Repeat this movement and continue sewing like this along the line.
Back stitch is also known as point de sable.
Enjoy your stitching!
My book for creative stitchers
If you enjoy my site you will gain real value from my book: Creative Stitches for Contemporary Embroidery: Visual Guide to 120 Essential Stitches for Stunning Designs
Feeling stale? Wondering how to add sparkle to your embroidery? I have aimed Creative Stitches for Contemporary Embroidery to be suitable for both beginners and seasoned embroiderers. It introduces techniques to encourage your creative interpretations of stitches. I guide you towards discovering play-points in your embroidery by varying the height and width; by stacking stitches; or by filling multiple rows with the same stitch. With creative variations and demonstrations of tiny tweaks, You will be ready to head off down your own creative path and, of course, illustrated with plenty of eye candy!
I can hardly believe the beauty and intricacies of your stitching. I am always drawn in immediately when I see your work/ play; its always so completely compelling and inspiring.
It’s good to have you back. You give fuel to my imagination, with all your luscious / glorious, stitching and embellishments – it moves me away from the ‘have to do’s’ and into that space I call meditation .
Mind you if you need a sabbatical to write a book or 10 I won’t complain.. I’m looking forward to the end result.. Best wishes Julia
Thanks Julia Hope you enjoy it
what stitches do you like to use when you are writing on a quilt? My background is flannelette. Any suggestions?
Jacki I would use stem stitch
Great to be reading your posts again 🙂
I might be one of the only readers who did not know how to do a back stitch. Thank you so much for sharing this. Your work is exquisite with such attention to details. Thank you for the site.
Hi Lori – Back stitch is very easy and quick to do I hope you learn it as it so useful!
Hi Sharon,
Back stitch is simple, but you have made it very beautiful.
Thanks for the inspiration,
Chitra
Hi Chitra thanks I agree it is simple but very effective stitch
So good to see you back – you were very much missed. Peg
Great to see you online again! I love the versatility and definition of backstitching. Exciting to know you are creating a book!
I’m glad to see you back too! I always enjoy looking at your beautiful creations….
So good to have you back Sharon!
thanks Allys it is great to be getting all these lovely messages too!
I think I caught up on reading your recent posts. I am so excited for you and the progress on your book! 🙂 Your ability to work with clusters of beads and stitches, as you did in your sandy scene, blows me away. Love the reminder that back stitch is good for more than outlining.
Pleased you found it useful Renee – I think lots of experienced stitchers forget how useful the basic stitches are
Great examples, clear directions! not to mention inspiring.
Thanks Janie