Backstitched chain stitch

Backstitched Chain Stitch

Backstitched chain stitch is a decorative variation of the Chain stitch. It is a composite stitch that combines a Chain stitch and a Backstitch.

Applications Of The Backstitched Chain Stitch

This simple yet very decorative hand embroidery stitch will look great if you use it for lettering, outlines, or simple borders. You can even make the filling with dense rows of these stitches. Besides that, this hand embroidery stitch can be made in single color or with two contrasting colors.

Backstitched Chain stitch front side
Backstitched Chain stitch back side

How To Embroider Backstitched Chain Stitch

Backstitched Chain stitch step1
Backstitched Chain stitch step2
  • Start with a row of Chain stitches. You can embroider it with a regular Chain stitch or Reverse chain stitch
  • Now embroider a Backstitch over the Chain stitches. 
  • Push the needle up inside the second Chain stitch and make a stitch back – to the first Chain stitch.
  • Come up inside the third Chain stitch and make a stitch to the second Chain stitch.
  • Continue adding Backstitches till all Chain stitch is covered.

More Stitches From The Chain Stitch Family

Video tutorial

If you are a visual learner, watch a video tutorial below or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel. In this video, you’ll find easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions that will have you creating the Backstitched Chain stitch like a pro in no time.

What’s next?

If you’re in the mood to explore more hand embroidery stitches, check out the Stitches and Techniques page for the list of other fantastic stitches available on my blog. From timeless classics to modern twists, a whole world of stitches is waiting for you to explore and master. So, grab your hoop and needle, and let’s stitch our way to creative bliss!

Need More Guidance?

The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.

White sashiko stitches on purple fabric