Definition
Backstitching means sewing a few machine stitches in reverse at each end of a seam to lock it; a backstitch is also a strong hand stitch.
On a sewing machine, backstitching, also called backtacking, secures the thread ends so the seam does not unravel. Start a seam about 1 cm (3/8 in) from the edge, sew three or four stitches in reverse to the edge, then sew forward over them; at the end, do the same. Many recent machines also offer a lock or tie-off stitch that sews several tiny stitches in place instead.
When not to backstitch:
- At the point of a dart, where reverse stitching makes a lump: tie the thread ends instead.
- On basting and gathering stitches, which must pull out or slide.
- On visible topstitching, where the overlap looks heavy: pull the threads to the wrong side and knot them.
- On very fine or sheer fabric, where reverse stitches can push the fabric into the needle plate. Shorten the stitch length for the first few stitches instead.
By hand, the backstitch is the strongest basic stitch. Each stitch goes back to meet the end of the previous one, giving a continuous line that looks like machine stitching on the right side. It is the stitch for mending seams, sewing where a machine cannot reach and small repairs.
See hand sewing stitches you will actually use and how to sew a straight seam.