Whipped Back Stitch // Hand Embroidery Stitches
Stitches

Whipped Back Stitch // Hand Embroidery Stitches

A curved, semi-circle with two colours (red and yellow) demonstrating a whipped back stitch.
A curved, semi-circle with two colours (red and yellow) demonstrating a whipped back stitch.

Details

Name:

Whipped Back Stitch
aka: Whipped Stitch

Difficulty:

Easy

Structure:

Composite Solid-line Whipped

Technique:

crewelwork ribbonwork surface

Uses:

Border Outline Stems


Watch this video on YouTube.


Overview

Whipped Back Stitch produces a thicker line compared to a standard Backstitch. It offers a similar appearance to a Stem Stitch but slightly finer, and provides the flexibility of being stitched with two different colored threads if needed. This method proves valuable when creating a raised line on delicate fabrics unsuitable for direct embroidery with heavy threads.

For further context, please refer to the entry on Backsitch.

Method

Use a blunt-ended tapestry needle for the whipping thread to avoid splitting the foundation stitches.
Larger foundation back stitches will allow the tapestry needle to pass easily under each stitch.

Step 1
First, work a foundation row of back stitches ensuring each stitch is equal in size and not too small.
Step 2
Using a second thread, whip over this line from right to left, as shown, without picking up any ground fabric. Use a blunt-ended tapestry needle for the whipping thread to avoid splitting the foundation stitches.
Step 3
Continue whipping along the line. Notice the benefit of having slightly larger foundation back stitches allowing the tapestry needle to pass easily under each stitch.

History

Details about the history of the Whipped Back Stitch come from it's origination; the Backsitch.


Projects

Here are some projects you can complete that include this stitch!

more coming soon…
 

Reference: RSN Stitchbank

Previous
Lazy Daisy Stitch // Hand Embroidery Stitches
Next
Stem Stitch // Hand Embroidery Stitches

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

Hi, I'm Kate 👋

About the author

In a previous life (AKA: pre-kids), I was a web des/dev & photographer who loved to dabble in numerous arts and crafts. Now, I'm a cross-stitch & embroidery pattern designer and full-time mum to Charlie & Alex, with adult-diagnosed ADHD. Closet nerd, self-proclaimed hermit and professional procrastinator. I have a secret crush on modern architecture, brush calligraphy, sweets, pretty nails and pastel colours.

Sign up for the newsletter

Don't worry! You won't be inundated with emails and you can unsubscribe whenever you need to.