What Is A Whipped Back Stitch? Get Answered All Of Your Questions

I saw a thread that looked like a rope. It looks so interesting. I was looking at it and wondering is it back chain stitch? Hasan came and said it is one of my favorite stitches called whipped back stitch. I was like what it is now? 😑

Not enough info right? Don’t get impatient I’ll explain it in detail to you.

What Is A Whipped Back Stitch?

A whipped back stitch is a neat way to outline your designs, creating a smooth, slightly raised line that looks like a twisted rope.

It’s perfect for adding a bit of flair to your lettering and those tight, curved lines in your embroidery projects. That’s why back stitch embroidery is most needed.

A whipped back stitch gives you a thicker line than a regular back stitch length, kind of like a chain stitch but a bit finer. This also kind of resembles a split backstitch embroidery design, right?

Plus, you can use 2 different colored threads if you want to get creative. This technique is great for when you need a raised line on a delicate fabric that can’t handle heavy thread.

This is my other favorite various of backstitch after spaced back stitch.

A whipped back stitch is a decorative embroidery technique where you first create a basic backstitch and then “whip” a second thread around each stitch without piercing the fabric, creating a smooth, twisted effect.

This adds texture and dimension to the stitched line.

What Is The Difference Between Back Stitch And Whipped Back Stitch?

I know it’s confusing cause the back stitch and whipped back stitch are the same yet different from each other. The difference is kinda like whip stitch vs back stitch.

But still here is the basic difference between them:

Topic	Back Stitch	Whipped Back Stitch
Basic Definition	A solid, continuous line of stitches.	A back stitch enhanced with wrapped thread, creating a raised, textured effect.
Looks	Solid, flat line.	Raised, textured line resembling a twisted rope or braid.
Usage	The back stitch is for making clear lines and outlines in embroidery. Also, used to sew something back together.	The whipped back stitch is great for adding texture and creating solid, decorative lines in your embroidery projects.
Technique	Stitches are made by bringing the tapestry needle back into the previous stitch.	After stitching back stitches, a new thread wraps around each stitch to create texture.
Effect	Creates a neat, uniform line.	Adds depth and visual interest with a raised, braided look.

What Is A Whipped Back Stitch Used For?

A whipped back stitch is typically used in embroidery and decorative stitching.

Here are some common uses of a whipped back stitch:

1. 15% Outline: It can be used to outline shapes or create decorative borders around designs in embroidery projects.
2. 20% Text and Lettering: Whipped back stitches are sometimes used for stitching text or lettering, adding a bold and defined outline.
3. 20% Texture: It can add texture to your embroidery work Especially when combined with other stitches or used in varied thread colors. If you wanna keep it quick then use Running Back Stitch.
4. 45% Tightly curved lines: This stitch is effective for adding fine detailing or accents to your embroidery, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your project.

How Many Strands For Whipped Back Stitch?

The number of strands of thread you use for a whipped backstitch can vary depending on how many strands of floss you’re working with. Just like it vary while deciding thread stand for backstitch.

If you’re using 2 strands of floss, stitch each backstitch over 2 strands of linen or evenweave. For 3 or more strands of floss, stitch each backstitch over 4 strands of linen or evenweave. 

When it comes to the whipped backstitch, there are 2 main stages.

First, you’ll do the backstitch. Adjust the length of each backstitch based on the number of strands you’re using.

For example, 

Next, you’ll add the whipstitch using a different thread. To get the best results, you can play around with 2  strands for both the backstitch and the whipping. Using 1 strand of cotton embroidery floss for the backstitch and 1 for the whipping creates a delicate line.

And that’s it that’s how you will get a perfect whipped back stitch. But if you are doing back whip stitch leather then the number will change.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)

Final Thought

Got your answer about what is a whipped back stitch? Great then now use the whipped stitch the right way at the right place. If you ever get confused then feel free to reach out to sewinginspo.