At first, I thought the backstitch was a simple stitch that couldn’t be used much in embroidery. However, my thought process changed when I found out that there are many types of back stitches. Yes, Backstitch is the strongest stitch among all stitche types, also with many versions.
That backstitch is one of my favorite stitches. Among 13 versions of Backstitch, my favourites are-
Back Stitch Key Type
- Double Threaded Backstitch
- Whipped Back Stitch
- Pekinese Stitch
- Open Back Stitch
But those are just 4 out of 13 types of backstitch. Don’t you wanna know What are the different types of Backstitch? If you do, then read on.
Main Info:
- There are 13 types of backstitch.
- The whipped backstitch is perfect for any rope effect.
- Herringbone ladder backstitch adds a unique yet creative touch to embroidery.
Table of Contents
13 Types Of Back Stitch With Picture
There are 13 Types of back stitch embroidery such as:
- Laced Back Stitch
- Double Threaded Backstitch
- Whipped Back Stitch
- Pekinese Stitch
- Open Back Stitch
- Herringbone Ladder
- Split Back Stitch
- Brick Stitch
- Double Back Stitch
- Half Back Stitch
- Back Tack Stitch
- Running Back Stitch
- Spaced Back Stitch
Laced Back Stitch
The laced backstitch is basically an up-and-down waving thread above the backstitch. It is also called threaded backstitch.
How does it look? Well,
This extra “lace” layer gives it a braided or almost twisted appearance. That makes the stitches stand out more vibrantly. In embroidery, you’ll often see this stitch used as a border on samplers or to outline elements like flowers, leaves, or lettering.
Double Threaded Backstitch
The Double Threaded Backstitch is a stitch that starts with a simple backstitch line as the base.
It is a solid backstitch line with 2 threads looping around each side. The result is a richly layered effect, almost like a decorative trim or rope. This back stitch uses in embroidery.
This stitch stands out well, especially where you want bold accents. Because of the double-threaded lacing, the line looks fuller, with a hint of dimension. And each color shows up vividly, creating a striking visual effect that gives extra personality to the design.
Whipped Back Stitch
A whipped backstitch is a backstitch with thread whipped around it. It may sound similar to a laced one but it’s slightly different. The extra thread has a wavy effect in a laced backstitch, but in a whipped version, it whips the backstitch.
It creates the extra thick backstitch effect. This process of whipped backstitch wraps the initial line, creating a beautifully raised, twisted effect that almost looks like a rope.
This stitch is popular for outlining shapes or accenting embroidered elements like flowers, leaves, or borders.
It’s also an excellent way to add texture to lettering. It makes the words stand out in embroidery designs.
Pekinese Stitch
The Pekinese stitch combines a back stitch with a looping technique to create a textured, braided effect. It is also known as Chinese or Oriental Stitch.
Here’s how it works:
First, you create a line of basic backstitches. Then, you loop through each back stitch using a different thread. And create little scalloped loops along the edge.
The final look of the Pekinese Stitch is unique and eye-catching, with a blend of structure from the back stitch and softness from the loops. Traditional embroidery styles often use this stitch to add a tactile border around shapes.
It’s especially great for adding a whimsical, decorative edge to fabrics or projects that need a bit of textural interest without being overly complex.
Open Back Stitch
The Open Back Stitch is a traditional back stitch, leaving 1-inch gaps between each stitch. It creates a more open, airy effect.
Unlike the continuous line of a regular back stitch, where each stitch connects seamlessly to the next, the Open Back Stitch has a small space between each stitch, which gives it a lighter, dotted appearance.
This stitch is commonly used to create a delicate outline that doesn’t overpower other elements in your embroidery. The Open Back Stitch is ideal for more casual or whimsical designs. It gives your work a relaxed look that still maintains its definition.
Herringbone Ladder Stitch
The Herringbone Ladder is a decorative stitch that combines the look of the classic herringbone stitch with an added “ladder” effect down the middle.
It’s worked by creating 2 parallel rows of herringbone stitches with an open space between them. Then, a third thread is woven or laced through this open space. It makes it look like a ladder rung connecting each side.
This stitch often fills larger spaces with an eye-catching, textured look. The Herringbone Ladder is especially remarkable when you use contrasting colors for the base stitch and the laced “ladder” thread.
It makes the centre detail pop beautifully against the crossed stitches on either side.
Split Back Stitch
The Split Back Stitch is a variation of the back stitch that creates a thicker, slightly textured line by splitting the previous stitch as you go.
The Split Stitch has a slightly raised, braided appearance. Each stitch looks thicker and more textured than a regular backstitch.
This basic stitch is often used for Outline stitch or lettering because it adds a subtle dimension and looks more notable on the fabric. It’s also handy for detailed designs where you want lines to stand out with more depth.
Brick Stitch
Brick stitch is a bead weaving technique with beads stacked horizontally in a pattern resembling a brick wall. A brick stitch pattern can be transformed into a peyote stitch pattern simply by rotating it 90 degrees.
The Brick Stitch creates a neat, grid-like texture resembling a brick or tiles wall. This offset arrangement gives a distinct, almost “woven” appearance.
When worked closely together, the stitches create a solid, smooth fill that feels structured and tidy.
The look can vary based on thread thickness and spacing. Using thicker threads or tighter spacing makes the “bricks” appear solid and bold. But no matter what you choose, it will create a perfect embroidery.
Double Back Stitch
The Double Back Stitch is stitching 2 parallel rows of back stitches along a narrow shape, with each stitch crossing from one side to the other. This technique creates an overlapping herringbone effect on the reverse side.
The Double Back Stitch can be worked on a backstitch fabric’s front or back. When done on the front, it has 2 parallel rows of back stitches. It creates a closed herringbone effect on the reverse side.
The result is a sturdy, eye-catching, thicker, and more defined stitch. It’s perfect for embroidery designs that need more emphasis, especially when working with patterns that require a bold outline or want to give a design extra visual weight.
Half Back Stitch
A Half Back Stitch is a variation of the back stitch but with spaces left between the stitches on the front side of the fabric. It’s also known as an uneven back stitch or detached back stitch.
The Half Back Stitch has a unique look due to its “half” appearance. It resembles a regular back stitch, but instead of each stitch being connected to the next, there’s a slight gap between them.
In sewing and embroidery,
The Half Back Stitch is often used to stabilize seams, secure damaged areas, and mount or secure edges. It’s also helpful for reinforcing fabric in areas that experience wear and tear or need extra durability.
Back Tack Stitch
Back-tack stitch is a reversed back stitch. These stitches move forward a few stitches, then the needle reverses back over those stitches to support them.
This technique is ideal for securing seams, especially in areas that may experience stress, like the start and end of seams or corners.
The Back Tack Stitch looks like a small, tightly layered section of stitches at the start or end of a seam. On the surface, a few extra stitches overlap. It creates a thicker, slightly more noticeable spot.
If you’re working by hand, the back tacks look like compact stitches going back and forth over a short distance. Back tack is so simple yet so unique. That’s why it’s so favourite among all those.
Running Back Stitch
The Running Back Stitch combines the running stitch and the back stitch. It’s like a normal backstitch but leaving a ½ inch gap between each stitch. After completing a few running stitches, you work back over the gaps with a back stitch.
This gives the line a dashed appearance with alternating filled and open sections, making it stronger than a basic running stitch while still looking lighter than a solid back stitch.
The Running Back Stitch is great for outlining designs, adding subtle decorative lines, or even as a guide stitch for later work. It’s useful when you need a secure stitch with flexibility and a lighter look than a solid line.
Spaced Back Stitch
The Spaced Back Stitch is a variation of the traditional back stitch where ¼ inch gaps are left between each stitch. Instead of forming a continuous line, each stitch is separated.
It gives a dotted or dashed appearance along the stitched path. This subtle break between stitches creates lighter, more straight lines that is perfect for adding understated detail or texture to a design without overpowering it.
The Spaced Back Stitch works well for outlining elements in embroidery. It’s also a great option for adding texture without the density of a full back stitch, giving designs a unique, airy quality.
Types Of Back Stitches Pdf
Memorizing all the versions of the backstitch is a tough job. So, instead of struggling, download this PDF and save it for later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Disadvantages Of Back Stitching?
One disadvantage is that it can create a dense line, which sometimes looks bulky on delicate fabrics or lighter designs. Additionally, back stitching can be time-consuming, as each stitch requires precision to align correctly, especially along curves.
What Is An Alternative To Back Stitching?
An alternative to back stitching is the stem stitch. The stem stitch creates a smooth, twisted line that works well for straight and curved lines, offering a more flowing, less bulky appearance.
That’s It
Exploring these different back stitch types really shows how a simple stitch can bring so much personality to a design! Whether you want a strong outline, a soft border, or a bit of extra flair, a back stitch technique is just right for the job. I hope this guide sparks some new ideas for your next project—happy stitching!
If you still feel lost, then reach out to Sewing Inspiration. We would love to guide you.
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