How to Do a Needlepoint Back Cross Stitch

One of the elements in creating a piece of art work using cross stitch is using a back stitch. Back stitch is used to outline, make lines and often create words in a piece of needlepoint. Using a back stitch in cross stitch and needlepoint helps to bring the piece of work together and accomplish a finished look.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Thread your needle with two strands of the desired color embroidery floss. Back stitching is usually done in black or another solid color.

2. Decide where in your work you want to start your back stitch.

3. Thread your needle up through the back of the work at your starting point.

4. Pass your needle through the hole that is directly to the right of the hole you brought the needle through the first time.

5. Bring your needle through the fabric, from the back, in the next rightmost hole.

6. Complete the stitch by inserting your needle in the hole to the left of the one your needle just passed through.

Tips & Warnings

• It will be necessary to repeat the steps several times until your piece is completely outlined.
• Periodically let your needle drop and the thread unwind. This is particularly helpful in preventing your thread from becoming one big knot.
• Use an even tension on all the stitches so that the work does not become bunched.
• Don't forget to tie a small knot in the end of your thread. This will stop the thread from coming through the fabric as you are working.