What is the backstitch and how do I use it?
The backstitch is a simple outline stitch in hand embroidery. It joins straight stitches together to create a line that is simple and versatile. The backstitch has a "beady" look that gives embroidery patterns that unique, hand-made texture. For an outline stitch that looks a little more seamless, give the stem stitch or split stitch a try. In the Stitching Raccoon Sampler, the backstitch is used to outline the Raccoon's body.
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Backstitch diagram
Below is what a typical diagram for the backstitch may look like in an embroidery pattern or on other how-to pages.
See the backstitch in action
Follow along with this quick video to see how each step of the backstitch comes together.
Step-by-step instructions:
Now, let's walk through each step in the backstitch together.
Step 1: From the backside of the fabric, bring your needle up, about a stitch length away from your starting point.
Step 2: Now, going backward, insert the needle down at the starting point
Step 3: Come back up a stitch length away from your last stitch.
Step 4: Insert the needle down through the same hole as the last stitch. This will join the stitches. Continue along the line in this way.
Save it for later
Want to remember how to do the backstitch? Pin the image below to Pinterest as a quick reference for later!
Give it a try, you can do it!
Now it's your turn to grab a needle, some embroidery floss, and give it a go! Practice the backstitch, along with other basic embroidery stitches, in the Stitching Raccoon Sampler. Get the embroidery pattern for FREE by signing up below!
