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Whipped back stitch icon
Whipped back stitch

Whipped back stitch main image

Whipped back stitch makes a heavier line than a back stitch. It gives a similar effect to a stem stitch but a touch finer with the added bonus that it can be stitched in two separate colour threads if required. This technique is useful when a raised line is required on a fabric which is too delicate for a heavy thread to be embroidered directly through the weave.

For more background see the entry for back stitch.

Whipped back stitch is generously sponsored by Nicola Jarvis

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.

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1

First, work a foundation row of back stitches ensuring each stitch is equal in size and not too small.

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.

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.

Whipped back stitch

Common uses

This technique is useful when a raised line is required on a fabric which is too delicate for a heavy thread to be embroidered directly through the weave.

Related Stitches

References

  • Mary Thomas, Jan Eaton, Mary Thomas’s Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches (Revised Edition) (1989) , p.13