Outlining tip

[fullnovembermoon]

I found a trick that helps get through all the backstitching on a design which is using a sharp needle instead of a tapestry needle. I use a very small sewing needle which makes getting through the other stitches you've previously made a lot easier. It also helps if in the chart it shows the threads going over areas that aren't near a corner, you can use the sharp needle to place it where it needs to go. In addition if I end up with the backstitching going longer across an area than I'm comfortable with I will go up in the middle of the long area and catch the thread and come back down in the same hole which tacks down the thread but is nearly invisible. I hope that makes sense!

[Mabel Figworthy]

I like idea of couching round the design if the lines are very long, good tip!

[wendywombat]

That sounds a very sensible approach! I shall try that on the next project that needs backstitch. I hate the way backstitch is so 'cuboid' (can't think of a better word!!)

Yet it does bring detail to a design. I rarely use black these days, but try to find a darker shade of the thread or a dark grey.

[LadyS]

Very nice tip. I use a chenille needle for backstitching as it has a tip. And it's also where I do all of my finger poking.