How to Back Stitch

Written By Lauren Mills

Back Stitch Basics: The Perfect Outline for Your Designs

Want to create clean, precise lines that define your shapes and bring your embroidery to life? Back stitch is your go-to stitch! It’s perfect for outlines, lettering, and any detail that needs a crisp, polished edge.

How to Back Stitch:

  • Start at the right end of your line.

  • Bring your needle up through the fabric at point 1.

  • Move one stitch-width to the left and insert your needle back down at point 2.

  • Bring the needle back up one stitch-width to the right of the last stitch (point 3), creating overlapping stitches along your line.

  • Continue along the line, following the pattern and keeping your stitches even.

Tip: Keep your stitches small and consistent for a smooth, continuous line. If you make a little mistake, don’t worry — back stitch is easy to adjust and forgiving for beginners.

Lauren Mills
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