Split Stitch, as the name suggests, involves splitting the thread of the previous stitch and creates a similar appearance to that of Chain Stitch.
It’s brilliant for beginners to learn as it’s so simple and versatile – you can use it to outline a design or to fill an area with texture when you work it in dense rows.
Similar to Backstitch, you work back on yourself to split the thread of the previous stitch with your needle. As this motion anchors the thread in place, the stitch is ideal for designs with tighter curves – much like our ocean banner.
This lovely Split Stitch tutorial was created by Heather Nugent and first appeared in Love Embroidery issue 15. Looking for similar projects? Sign up for our newsletter to get weekly inspiration and free patterns!
How to work Split Stitch
Step 1
For Split Stitch in one strand, begin by working a single straight stitch. Bring the needle up through the centre of your first stitch, about halfway along, splitting the fibres evenly on either side of the needle. Take the needle down again, completing the next stitch. Continue stitching in the same manner, spacing the stitches at regular intervals to create a neat line of stitches.
Step 2
If working in multiple strands, use the same method as in step 1, but bring your needle up between the strands instead of through the fibres. For a neater finish, it’s best to use an even amount of strands, as you will want an equal amount on each side. However, you can use an odd amount – split the central strand instead or have an uneven amount on one side.
Step 3
Split Stitch can also be used as a filling stitch. For rounded shapes, first outline an area with a Split Stitch border. Then work in a spiral, starting from the outline and moving in towards the centre. For a more angular shape, work the outline and then fill with parallel rows of Split Stitch to create a solid block. You want the lines of stitches to be touching but not overlapping each other.
Step 4
Split Backstitch is an alternative way to work Split Stitch that uses a similar method to Backstitch. Instead of bringing the needle up through the centre of the previous stitch, bring it up through the fabric where the end of the next stitch will sit. Then, take the needle back down through the centre of the previous stitch, splitting the fibres or strands as you do so.
Create the ocean banner using Split Stitch
Stitches needed:
- Split Stitch
Download the free ocean embroidery template
