One of the fundamental stitches in embroidery is the backstitch and is found in the patterns for the 18th Century Band Sampler, Euphemia Woodger, Mary Piggott, and the Blue and White Band Sampler. In this guide, we'll take you through the steps of creating a flawless backstitch that will add definition and precision to your embroidery projects. Using the backstitch, you can create straight or stepped lines, or graduate the slope of the stitch to give an appearance of a curve. Each stitch is worked along a side of a square, or you can work across the diagonal across two squares for graduated slopes.
What is a Backstitch? The backstitch is a versatile and essential embroidery stitch known for its durability and ability to create clean, solid lines. It's often used for outlining shapes, adding text, and providing structure to your designs. The stitch is what it says it is: a stitch that goes backward before going forward. On a pattern, the backstitch is usually indicated by a straight line showing where you should place the stitches.
Here is an example of a stitcher testing out their skills with this stitch on my Blue and White Band Sampler (purchase the pattern or kit).
How to make a backstitch
To make a backstitch, follow these steps:
- Working from right to left, bring the needle up one hole (hole 1).
- Insert the needle to the right, at the next hole (hole 2).
- Then bring the needle back up in the whole behind your first hole (hole 3).
- Insert the needle in hole one, thus having created two complete stitches in a line.
- Repeat the process as needed.
Tips for making perfect backstitches
Here are a few tips for creating perfect backstitches:
- Maintain consistent stitch lengths for a neat appearance.
- Keep the tension on your thread consistent throughout.
- Practice on a scrap piece of fabric to improve your technique.
- Be sure to complete any backstitches last so they lay flat and do not get covered up by any cross stitches.
Uses for backstitches
Backstitches can be used to create a variety of effects in embroidery, including:
- Outlines
- Filled-in shapes
- Lettering
- Detailing
- And more!
Below is a great example of the backstitch that Euphemia Woodger utilized to create charming detail in 1844 to define Riddell House's windows, chimneys, and door. Purchase the pattern or kit.
Watch how to create a backstitch from the amazing needleworker Mary Corbett below. Now that you've mastered the backstitch, you can add a new level of precision and definition to your embroidery projects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced embroiderer, the backstitch is an essential skill that elevates your needlework to new heights. Happy stitching!