The backstitch is my favourite stitch. That’s why I even made a sewing book with it. But learning is a never-ending process. Just when I thought I had learned every type of backstitch, Grandma told me about Woven backstitch.
She said it’s another easy form of the stitch.
Woven Stitch
To do a woven backstitch by hand, first sew a basic backstitch, then weave a second thread over and under the stitches to create a textured effect.
‘It sounds like whipped back stitch. Is it same?’ I asked. Grandma said, ‘not really. Let me tell you how’
Main facts:
- Unlike a regular back stitch, this stitch involves weaving a thread through the existing stitches to create a raised, decorative effect.
- A whipped back stitch wraps around the stitches, while a woven back stitch goes over and under, like basket weaving.
- Using a different color enhances the woven effect
Table of Contents
What Is Woven Back Stitch?
A woven back stitch is a normal backstitch but with thread sliding under it. This creates a cool, textured effect that stands out. It’s an easy way to add dimension and a bit of flair to your embroidery designs.
I asked Grandma,
Ok then, how does it differ from whipped back stitch? It sounds the same to me. 🤔
The whipped back stitch is when you take a regular back stitch and “whip” (or wrap) another thread around it. The woven back stitch, however, is a bit more complex. Instead of just wrapping the thread around, you weave it over and under the existing back stitches.
Think of it this way:
- Whipped back stitch = Wrapping around the stitches. This can also in stitching patterns for leather.
- Woven back stitch = Thread going over and under, like basket weaving. It is a permanent stitch.
Steps To Do Woven Back Stitch By Hand
After that explanation, Grandma grabbed the thread and needle and started showing me the process.
Let’s do a woven back stitch.
Sew a Backstitch Line First
Before we get to the whipping part, we need a strong base to work with. Thread your needle and make a good, strong knot at the end of your thread.
Bring your needle up from the back of the fabric at the starting point of your line. Take your needle back down a short distance ahead to create your first back stitch.
For the next stitch,
Bring your needle up a little further ahead, then push it back down where your last stitch ended. Keep going like this until you have a nice, even row of back stitches.
This is what we’ll be whipping over. Oh, look at that! Doesn’t it already look so neat?
Now, onto the fun part.
Bring Up Your Different Color Thread
If you want your whip stitch to really stand out, use a different color thread. Bring your needle up from the back of the fabric, right next to the very first back stitch.
Now, don’t push it back down into the fabric just yet! Instead, keep that needle moving over and under the stitches.
Slide Your Needle Under The First Back Stitch.
Slide your needle under the first back stitch.
Be gentle.
We’re not stabbing the fabric. Just tucking under the stitches like we’re weaving a little basket. Pull the thread through, but don’t yank it too hard! We want a nice, smooth loop. That will create the weaved back stitch.
Now, Move To The Next Back Stitch And Do The Same Thing
Slide your needle under and pull through gently. Keep going along the whole row, always whipping in the same direction so the loops look even. Kinda like a double backstitch.
Oh, see how it’s making a lovely, twisted effect?
Like a little candy cane if you use two colors!
Adjust the Tension (If Needed)
Now, before we finish up, let’s make sure everything looks nice and even. If some loops look too tight or too loose. I do this while doing a laced back stitch, too.
Take the back of your needle and gently nudge them into place. You can loosen or tighten the whipped thread depending on how raised you want the effect to be.
A little adjusting makes all the difference.
Secure and Finish
Once you reach the end of the line, take your needle down through the fabric to secure your final loop. Flip your fabric over and tie a small knot at the back to keep everything in place.
Snip off the excess thread, and voila! You’ve got yourself a gorgeous, twisted, textured stitch.
‘Doesn’t that look just lovely?’ Grandma said with a lovely look.
You can use this for outlining, decorating edges, or adding a little extra texture to your embroidery.
Woven Back Stitch Patterns
After that section with Grandma. I’ve played around with different woven back stitch variations. Here are a few ideas that you can also use,
- Classic Woven Back Stitch – Simple yet elegant. Weaving a contrasting thread through a back stitch gives a subtle raised effect.
- Double Woven Back Stitch – I tried this with two colors, and it created a beautifully braided look. Great for lettering!
- Zigzag Woven Back Stitch – A bit tricky at first, but the diagonal weaving adds a lace-like texture that stands out.
- Looped Woven Back Stitch – Loved how leaving tiny loops created a beaded effect. It works well for floral details.
- Gradient Woven Back Stitch – Blending different thread colors while weaving gave a stunning ombré effect. Definitely a favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same color thread for whipping?
Yes! Using the same color gives a subtle, textured effect, while a contrasting color makes the twisted design stand out beautifully.
What type of fabric is best for a whipped back stitch?
It works best on tightly woven fabrics like cotton, linen, or Aida cloth, as they provide a stable surface for stitching.
Do I need a special needle for this stitch?
No, a regular embroidery needle will work just fine. If you’re working with thicker thread, a needle with a larger eye might be helpful.
The END
After learning from Grandma, I even tried it on my fabric. And then went to show it to her. She was really impressed and said,
Your whipped back stitch is all done, and doesn’t it just add the most beautiful little twist to your embroidery? It’s such a simple technique, but it gives your stitches that extra bit of texture and charm.
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