Split Stitch

One of the basic simple embroidery stitches that I highly recommend learning for beginners is a Split Stitch.

A Split Stitch is perfect for any pattern that involves outlining or lettering. Also, this stitch is a go-to when you need to outline for Satin Stitches as it has a smooth surface of the line and will support a clean edge for the satin stitch.

Thick rows of Split Stitches can be used for fill stitching too.

Other Names Of The Split Stitch

Sometimes you may find the names of the Split Stitch and Split Backstitch used interchangeably or referring to the same stitch. Keep in mind that these two are completely different stitches. In Split Stitch, we divide the previous stitch from down up and in a Split Back Stitch – from the top.

Split Stitch embroidery with dark red pearl cotton thread and cotton floss — Split Stitch embroidery with pearl cotton thread and cotton floss

Split Stitch embroidery rear side — Rear side of Split Stitch embroidery

Applications Of Split Stitch In Hand Embroidery:

Outlines
Lettering
Filling

More Stitches From The Stem Stitch Family:

Learn how to embroider Split Stitch

Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Split Stitch quickly. If you are a visual learner, watch a video lesson in the tutorial or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel to learn this hand embroidery stitch faster.

How to embroider Split Stitch

Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial

Instructions

1. Take the needle up at the starting point of your shape or line. Make a straight stitch. Pull all the thread to the underside of the fabric.

2. Push the needle up through the fabric in the center of your first stitch. Split the first stitch with the needle on the way to the surface.

3. From this position, make one more stitch of the same length forward.

4. Take the needle up through the second stitch, splitting it.

5. Continue repeating the stitches until you outline the shape or finish to embroider the line.

Video tutorial

Tools and materials I used for this sampler

Disclaimer. To cover the cost of creating free embroidery patterns and video tutorials for this blog, I do sometimes link to products. Please assume these links are affiliate links. If you choose to buy through my links then THANK YOU – it will make it possible for me to keep doing this.

Embroidery fabric cotton linen neutral colors Etsy — Embroidery fabric

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!