How to Do Laced Back Stitch (Step-by-Step)
Laced back stitch is a decorative variation of back stitch that uses a second thread woven through a row of back stitches to add texture, interest and colour. It is a lovely way to dress up outlines, borders, stems or lettering in hand embroidery, and builds naturally on the back stitch technique you may already know.
How to do laced back stitch (step-by-step)
- Begin by stitching a neat row of regular back stitches along your line in your first thread colour. This provides the base for the lacing.
- Bring a second thread up at the start of your stitched line without piercing the fabric again – just come up under the first back stitch (1).
- Weave the second thread under and over each back stitch in turn, following the line and creating a textured, laced effect along the row of stitches (2) & (3). It helps to use the wrong end of the needle as it won't pierce or catch the fabric by accident.
- When you reach the end of the line, take the thread to the back of the fabric, secure it neatly and trim your ends.
More about laced back stitch
Laced back stitch is built on the strong, continuous foundation of back stitch but with a second thread woven through it for colour contrast or extra texture. You can experiment with matching or contrasting threads, and adjust your tension slightly to make the lacing sit snugly or stand a little proud for a softly raised effect.
This stitch works beautifully for decorative outlines, borders, stems, and lettering where you want the line to pop with a bit more interest. It is an easy way to add a second colour to simple shapes without changing the underlying stitching.
Ready to practise laced back stitch?
If you would like some projects to try laced back stitch on, I have a range of beginner friendly embroidery kits and patterns that use line stitches and decorative accents.
Tips for laced back stitch
- Keep your back stitch foundation even and neat so the lacing thread sits smoothly on top.
- Use a blunt tapestry needle for the second thread so you can weave it under each back stitch without piercing the fabric.
- Try contrasting thread colours for the lacing to make the texture and pattern stand out.
- Adjust your tension slightly if you want the lacing to be snug and flat or a little more raised.
- This stitch works beautifully on stems, outlines and decorative bands where you want extra colour and texture.
