About RSN Stitch Bank
Ringed back stitch filling
- Back stitch rings
- Ringed back filling
Ringed back stitch filling consists of rows of back-stitched circles, each across six threads. They are actually octagons, but they look like circles, hence the name. This pulled work stitch is worked in two journeys, making pairs of back stitches over two threads.
For a less open version of this stitch, see eyelet stitch.
A version of this stitch was evidently in use during the 18th century as it features on various whitework waistcoats from this era: see the image at the end of the entry for an example.
Ringed back stitch filling is generously sponsored by Phoenix Stitchers
Method
Work a pair of back stitches over two fabric threads using the same holes.
Bring the needle up at two threads to the left and four threads down. Make a second pair of back stitches.
Repeat making pairs of back stitches to form a semi-circle.
Continue the first journey until the end of the design area, forming semi-circular shapes with pairs of back stitches.
On the return journey, continue making pairs of back stitches to form circular (octagonal) shapes. There will be four vertical back stitches where the two rings meet.
Continue onto the next row, which meets the previous row at the lower horizontal stitches. Again, there will be four horizontal back stitches where the two rings meet.
Fill the area in the same manner.
Ringed back stitch filling
Structure of stitch
Common uses
Embroidery Techniques
Related Stitches
References
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Anchor Embroidery, 100 Embroidery Stitches
Examples of Ringed back stitch filling
18th century whitework waistcoat
A variation on ringed back stitch filling is used to fill the centre of the flower. Note that the circles in this version are offset which results in a slightly different effect.
Cooper Hewitt, accession number: 1962-54-10-a,b
https://collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/18445183/
