Learn the Back Stitch for Slow Stitching for Beginners (and writing)
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The back stitch is one of the most fundamental and essential techniques in both hand embroidery and sewing. It can be used to make firm seams and also to write text on your fabrics.
I love using it in my slow stitching projects like this slow stitching book. It may be simple but it is very useful. It is also a great alternative to stem stitch for forming lines and outlines.
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You will need:
- Fabric (whatever you have)
- Needle (eye large enough for your thread)
- Thread (embroidery thread works really well)
- Scissors
Video Tutorial for Back Stitch
This video is also available on my YouTube channel.
Step-by-Step Back Stitch Tutorial
Step 1: Prepare your Fabric & Thread
Choose your fabric and cut it to size. If you want a specific design you can draw it on your fabric with a pencil or a heat erasable pen. Thread your needle with embroidery floss (you can use anywhere from 1 to 6 strands depending on the thickness you desire) and tie a knot at the end to prevent the thread from pulling through the fabric.
I often use 3 threads and that works really well. If you prefer a chunky stitch then use the whole embroidery thread.
Step 2: Bring the Needle Up
Start at your beginning point by bringing the needle up from the back of the fabric to the front. This is your starting position, which we’ll call point A. Pull the thread until your knot is sitting snugly behind the fabric
Step 3: Create Your First Straight Stitch
Insert the needle back down through the fabric at a distance from point A—this creates your first straight stitch. The length can be short or long depending on your project, but consistency is key. This insertion point is point B. This is just like when you are doing a running stitch.
Step 4: Make the Second Stitch
Bring the needle back up through the fabric at point C, leaving a gap between point B and point C. This gap should typically match the length of your stitch for a balanced appearance. Insert the needle down again at point B to complete your second stitch.
You are going back down through the fabric at the same point as you did for the first stitch.
Step 5: Continue the Pattern
Repeat this process—up and down at regular intervals—until you’ve completed your line. The result is a series of straight stitches with n spaces between them, creating that characteristic solid line appearance.
Finish off your back stitch by finishing your last stitch on the back of the fabric. Pass your needle through the stitch on the back and then pass your needle through the loop that you form. Pull the thread tight and a knot should form. You can also weave your needle in and out of the stitches on the back before cutting your thread.
Tips for Consistency
- Keep your stitch lengths the same throughout the line for a professional appearance
- Use shorter stitches when working around tighter curves
- Longer stitches work well for straight lines and gentle curves
- Do not pull your thread too tight – you do not want your fabric to pucker.
Writing with Back stitch
The back stitch is perfect for forming letters in your work. This is amazing for stitch journals, samplers, personalising bags, etc.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even with the back stitch, you can encounter a few problems. Here’s how to identify and correct them.
Inconsistent Stitch Length
The problem: Stitches vary in length, creating an uneven, unprofessional appearance.
The solution: Slow down and focus on consistency rather than speed. Mark guidelines on your fabric at regular intervals as reference points. Count fabric threads if working on even-weave fabric or squares if using Aida fabric. Practice maintaining a rhythm—think of it like a drumbeat. Slow down – you may be rushing.
Puckering Fabric
The problem: The fabric bunches or wrinkles around your stitches.
The solution: Don’t pull your thread too tight—it should lie smoothly on the fabric surface. Use an embroidery hoop to keep fabric taut while stitching. Check tension after each stitch, especially when starting out.
Stitches Don’t Follow the Line
The problem: Your stitches wander away from your marked pattern or guideline.
The solution: Use the stabbing method for better precision on curves. By that I mean put your needle in through the fabric, pull it taut, then bring it back through separately. Make sure you can clearly see your marked line. Work more slowly on detailed areas. For straight lines, use the needle shaft as a straightedge guide.
Thread Tangling or Knotting
The problem: Your thread twists, tangles, or forms knots as you work.
The solution: Use shorter thread lengths (no more than 18 inches). Let your needle dangle periodically to allow the thread to untwist. Don’t pull thread through fabric too quickly.
Project Ideas to Practice your Back Stitch
Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, put your new skills to work with these beginner-friendly projects.
Simple Line Designs
- Geometric patterns: Create modern art with straight lines, triangles, and squares
- Constellation designs: Connect dots with back stitch to form star patterns
- Abstract line art: Follow flowing, organic lines for a contemporary look
- Border embellishments: Add decorative borders to napkins, tea towels, or pillowcases
Nature-Inspired Motifs
- Simple flowers: Outline petals and stems with back stitch
- Leaves and branches: Create botanical illustrations with curved lines
- Waves and water: Use parallel running stitches to suggest movement
- Sun rays: Radiating lines from a central circle
Functional Projects
- Embroidered bookmarks: Simple lines or patterns on fabric strips
- Decorated tote bags: Add personalized designs to plain canvas bags
- Customized clothing: Embellish collars, cuffs, or pockets
Tips for Choosing Your First Project
- Start small—a 4-6 inch design is manageable and satisfying to complete
- Choose simple patterns with mostly straight or gently curved lines
- Use high-contrast thread and fabric so you can easily see your stitches
Remember, the goal is to practice and enjoy it!
Embrace your hand stitching
Once you start hand stitching you will fall in love with it. It is so relaxing and creative. Another easy stitch to learn is the stem stitch which you can learn here. Or how about chain stitch for cute loops?
Also, here are some projects that you can use your hand sewing for on this website.
Create your own slow stitching journal and see your sewing journey as you develop or use it to record your life or moods.
You can create yo-yo flowers to add to any other projects you may have. They look great in stitching journals, on bags, clothes, etc.
Use up fabric scraps top create pretty leaf brooches. You can add any stitches you like to these and they make lovely gifts.
Or, how about trying your hand at Cathedral Window Patchwork which can look stunning on a large or small scale.
Whatever you decide to sew, pin this guide to your favourite board on Pinterest so that you can find it again.
