Whipped Back Stitch

A Whipped Back Stitch is a variation of a Back Stitch and is made in two steps. First, we embroider a simple Backstitch and then whip it with another thread. You can use the same color thread to make a straight raised line or two contrasting colors to create a rope-like line.

Whipping of the Backstitches makes the embroidered line smoother, more fluid, and also raised from the surface. Another benefit of the Whipped Backstitch is that you can use two contrasting colors for this stitch and create colorful lettering or outlines.

Whipped backstitch red and white: Whipped backstitch tutorial — Whipped Backstitch embroidery

Applications Of Whipped Back Stitch

This beautiful stitch is excellent for lettering.
Outlining made with a Whipped Backstitch will create a smooth line.
Borders embroidered with double colored Whipped Backstitch will be simple yet very decorative.

More Stitches From The Back Stitch Family

You will find more variations of the Backstitch in the article “Backstitch and its variations. Hand embroidery stitches from the Backstitch family”.

Learn how to embroider Whipped Backstitch

Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Whipped Backstitch 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 Whipped Back Stitch

Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial

Instructions

1. Embroider Backstitch.

2. Come up with the needle at the beginning of the first stitch.

3. Pass the needle under the first stitch.

4. Now repeat this step and pass the needle under the next stitch. Keep the direction of the lacing stitches the same throughout all the stitches.

Video tutorial

Whipped backstitch hand embroidery tutorial

Whipped Backstitch for lettering

If you want to learn how to use Whipped Back Stitch for lettering, watch “Six Hand Embroidery Stitches for Lettering” 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!