Thread Work Of BackStitch

Backstitch or back stitch and its variants stem stitch, outline stitch and split stitch are a class of embroidery and sewing stitches in which individual stitches are made backward to the general direction of sewing. These stitches form lines and are most often used to outline shapes or to add fine detail,  Like the running stitch, the backstitch creates a line made up of straight stitches, but unlike the running stitch, there is no space between each stitch.

Backstitch is most easily worked on an even-weave fabric, where the threads can be counted to ensure regularity, and is generally executed from right to left. The stitches are worked in a 'two steps forward, one step back' fashion, along the line to be filled, as shown in the diagram.

Neatly worked in a straight line this stitch resembles machine stitching.

The back stitch can also be used as a hand-sewing sewing utility stitch to attach two pieces of fabric together.

Variants of backstitch

• Basic backstitch or point de sable.

• Threaded backstitch

• Pekinese stitch, a looped interlaced backstitch

Stem stitch, in which each stitch overlaps the previous stitch to one side, forming a twisted line of stitching, with the thread passing below the needle. It is generally used for outlining shapes and for stitching flower stems  and tendrils.

Whipped stem stitch Outline stitch, sometimes distinguished from stem stitch in that the thread passes above rather than below the needle.

Process

Split stitch, in which the needle pierces the thread rather than returning to one side.

The backstitch is easy to sew. Because I wanted the stitches to be visible, I made large stitches with green thread. Doing decorative embroidery, I highly recommend choosing a thread that matches for  fabric. Also, you probably will want to make smaller stitches than mine.

First, secure your thread. You may either tie a knot at one end or make a couple of anchoring stitches. Then, thread the needle and pull the needle through the fabric from back to front. Pull the thread until the knot catches. Next, reinsert the needle to the right of your original hole, this time piercing the fabric from front to back. Move the needle the same distance to the right, again, and pull the needle from back to front. All three points should be in a straight line.

To begin the 'back' part of the process, reinsert the needle into the leading edge hole of the previous stitch, as shown. Pull the slack thread through to tighten the stitch. You should now have two small stitches touching each other to form a straight line.