Back stitching

[alexh]

Im just about to do my first back stitching on my work,any tips?and how easy is it?
Alexh

[Wandatoo]

Here's a good site to check out, with instructions and diagrams.

crossstitch.about.com/od/outlineorbackstitch/ss/backst.htm

[RosemaryH]

Backstitching is very easy but some of us find it boring. My only tip is to be careful to follow the chart and not to worry too much, take your time and you will find it will be done in no time at all.

Rosemary

[wendywombat]

It's not a problem at all! Just keep your thread short as 1 strand does fray easily and can knot!
You can also use a longer version of stitching called 'sketchy backstitch' to soften the hard angular look to the edge.
I like to use a slightly darker thread to tone with the stitching rather than black. A dark grey or brown is also good.

[mags]

I quite enjoy backstitching - it is time consuming but I think it is worth it. Just try and make sure your stitches join up properly.

[maggs]

I enjoy backstiching, it's nice to see some detail come out in your work that you had not previously given a second glance to.

[crafterglen]

Some like it, some do not but it definately finishes off the piece, my one thought is to use a no. 28 cross stitch needle, it is a bit finer so it is easier to do the back stitching
Happy Stitching

[Rose]

I must say I like backstitching but only if it enhances the design and I like the color to be very contrasting so you can see it.

A tip is to make sure you do not jump to many holes at a time so that the lines are properly secured I don't go more then 2 at a time unless the line is diagonal and you have to skip more then 2.

[megandmog]

I'm not a big fan of back stitching, but once it's done I'm always glad because it makes such a difference and really enhances the design.

[alexh]

Thankyou all,Im going to start back stitching today
Alexh

[Dazbo666]

It certainly gives effective definition to your work, it's just that I personally don't like doing it.

[Pengwenn]

As much as I love the effect backstitching gives I hate the process. It seems so much more time comsuming and tedious than making all those little Xs. I kind of lose my interest in a project when I get to the backstitching. But I do love how just a couple of little lines here and there can really make an image pop.

[Thursday Next]

I'm actually going to be doing my first ever backstitching soon (later today!) too - thanks so much for starting the thread. That website has terrific diagrams and instructions - WAY more helpful than the instructions in the Dimensions charts The instructions given on the website indicate that a single stitch is made at each hole, even if the line extends over 4 holes - is this the correct/best way to perform backstitching? I had read elsewhere (prob the charts) just to make sure the line wasn't allowed to extend too long, no more than 9 holes.....

This definitely seems more logical to create a more precise, neat, and finished look.

Thanks!

[mags]

I much prefer to do the each hole thing, and don't like what they now seem to call sketchy back stitch that uses longer stitches, particularly diagonally across crosses. I can't bear the outline not being the outline if you get my meaning. Sorry if this is not very self-explanatory.

Of course long stitches sticking out for fur and whiskers etc is another matter

[Rose]

It is a personal choice and can be done in many ways I usually go over 2 on my back stitch and the coverage is very good. I would never go over nine the thread would be much to loose. You can go over one on straight lines or a single diagonal but when the line does a diagonal that is over 3 up one then you have to skip to make it look right. You will have to judge by were the backstitch is placed on the pattern you are following.

[Thursday Next]

Thanks! And yes, I meant to say over one/over two....I knew talking about "holes" was NOT right and my brain was blanking....*silly little newbie*

[Mabel Figworthy]

like Mags I think long-stitch has its place for whiskers, or ship's rigging, or that sort of thing, but generally I don't extend more than "two-up-one-across", especially on evenweave which has such convenient holes everywhere anyway .

[Lisa]

see, i dont like the dashy look, so i do a long stitch as i possibly can, if there is a long line (like the middle line int peacocks im doing) then i will do 2 or 3 lines

[~threadbear~]

I love backstitching and I experiment with the stitches as to what suits the design I'm doing. So on the whole I tend to do the smaller stitches, but in some designs the long ones seem to look better.

[DaisedLady]

I've done a bit of back stitching and try and do it over two or three for the straight bit and then between holes for diagonals to save going though the middle of the x's
I find that the least enjoyable bit of the project so I'm kinda dreading finishing my current wip which is a boothy cut thru and has LOADS of back stitch!