Stitch of the Week Backstitch

Backstitch 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.

Second in importance only to the cross stitch, the backstitch enhances and defines areas that have already been cross stitched.

Step 1:

Begin the backstitch by bring the needle up through the fabric, and then down one stitch ahead to make a single stitch. Then bring the needle up through the fabric a stitch ahead from the first stitch.

Step 2:

Now bring your needle back down through the fabric at the end of the first stitch. This is the "back" part of the backstitch.

Step 3:

Now bring your needle up through the fabric a stitch away from the previous stitch. You will then stitch back again. Just repeat this pattern of stitching and your piece will come to life right in front of you.

I have found that if I complete the back-stitching as I go it is not so overwhelming as waiting to stitch it last.