Backstitch: How to Do It Step by Step
Backstitch (bs in US patterns) is a beginner-level hand embroidery stitch that makes solid continuous line. Stitchers use it for lettering, outlines in cross stitch, fine detail. To start, come up a stitch length ahead of the start, then go back down at the start point. It is usually learned alongside split stitch.
Backstitch is a beginner-level hand embroidery stitch that makes solid continuous line. Patterns abbreviate it as bs, in both US and UK terms. Makers use it for lettering, outlines in cross stitch, fine detail.
The table below sums up backstitch in one place: craft, abbreviation, difficulty and the projects it suits best.
| Craft | Hand embroidery |
|---|---|
| US abbreviation | bs |
| UK abbreviation | bs |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Look and feel | Solid continuous line |
| Best for | Lettering, Outlines in cross stitch, Fine detail |
How do you work backstitch?
- Bring the needle up one stitch length ahead of the start point.
- Insert it back down at the start point.
- Bring the needle up one stitch length ahead of the last stitch.
- Insert it down into the end hole of the previous stitch.
- Repeat, keeping stitches the same length.
Backstitch is one of the stitches covered in cross stitch for beginners. When you are ready to plan a project in it, the cross stitch floss calculator will work out floss for the outlines.
What are the most common backstitch mistakes?
- Leaving gaps by not going back into the shared hole
- Stitches too long on curves
Practice on a swatch
Work a small sample before starting a project. It shows how the stitch looks in your chosen yarn or thread, and it is far easier to unpick a swatch than a finished piece.
Where does backstitch lead next? Bullion Knot is the natural step up: bullion knots sit on top of a backstitched outline for raised roses and caterpillars.
Which stitches are related to backstitch?
The 5 stitches below are the closest relatives of backstitch, with the abbreviation and difficulty of each.
| Stitch | Abbreviation | Difficulty | Look and feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Split Stitch | n/a | Beginner | Chain-like textured line; good underlay |
| Stem Stitch | n/a | Beginner | Twisted rope line; flows around curves |
| Running Stitch | n/a | Beginner | Dashed line; quick outline and quilting stitch |
| Bullion Knot | n/a | Experienced | Coiled raised bar |
| Colonial Knot | n/a | Intermediate | Neat raised knot, rounder and more consistent than a French knot |
What other beginner hand embroidery stitches should you learn?
- Running Stitch: outlines, sashiko
- Split Stitch: outlines, padding under satin stitch
- Stem Stitch: stems and vines, curved outlines
- Outline Stitch: outlines, redwork
- Chain Stitch: bold outlines, lettering
- Lazy Daisy (Detached Chain): flower petals, leaves
- Blanket Stitch: applique edges, felt
- Fly Stitch: leaves, grass
- Cross Stitch: counted designs on aida and evenweave, samplers
- Couching: metallic threads, yarn and cord
- Seed Stitch (Embroidery): textured fills, shading
Tools for hand embroidery
Morgan No-Slip Embroidery Hoops, 5, 7 and 9-Inch Set
Under $50No-slip hoops keep fabric drum tight so stitches sit evenly.
Check price
DMC Embroidery Floss Assortment, 100 Colors
Under $100One hundred colors of six-strand cotton floss for any design.
Check price
Gingher 3.5-Inch Stork Embroidery Scissors
Under $25Small, sharp scissors for trimming threads close to the fabric.
Check pricePrices change often, so confirm on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What is backstitch?
Backstitch is a hand embroidery stitch that makes solid continuous line. Makers reach for it for lettering, outlines in cross stitch, fine detail. It is rated beginner here, so it is a good stitch to learn early and practice on a small swatch before a real project.
How do you do backstitch step by step?
1. Bring the needle up one stitch length ahead of the start point. 2. Insert it back down at the start point. 3. Bring the needle up one stitch length ahead of the last stitch. 4. Insert it down into the end hole of the previous stitch. 5. Repeat, keeping stitches the same length. Work slowly for the first few repeats, keep your tension even, and check the result against the steps before continuing across a whole row or motif.
What is the abbreviation for backstitch?
US patterns abbreviate backstitch as bs. UK patterns use the same abbreviation, bs, so this one reads the same on both sides of the Atlantic. Pattern keys list every abbreviation used, usually near the materials list.
What projects use backstitch?
Backstitch suits lettering, outlines in cross stitch, fine detail. To size a project before you start, the cross stitch floss calculator will work out floss for the outlines, and cross stitch for beginners walks through a full project from the beginning.
What are common mistakes with backstitch?
The most common problems are: leaving gaps by not going back into the shared hole; stitches too long on curves. Most are easy to spot if you pause after a few repeats and compare your work with the steps. Good light helps a great deal, especially with dark yarn or thread.
What should you learn after backstitch?
Bullion Knot is the usual next step, because bullion knots sit on top of a backstitched outline for raised roses and caterpillars. It is rated experienced here, against beginner for backstitch. Its own step-by-step page is at bullion knot.
What stitches are similar to backstitch?
Stitches closely related to backstitch include Split Stitch, Stem Stitch, Running Stitch, Bullion Knot, Colonial Knot. Learning them together makes patterns easier to read, because many designs switch between related stitches to change texture, height or line. Each has its own step-by-step page in the stitch dictionary.
How we research: we compare manufacturer specifications, owner manuals, published standards and recurring themes in verified owner reviews. We do not test products in person, and this is researched guidance, not professional advice. Follow your machine manual and pattern, and take care with rotary cutters, hot irons and needles. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
