The Open Back Stitch is also known as
Partial Back Stitch [EN]
About the Open Back Stitch.
The Open Back Stitch looks similar to the Running Stitch but follows the Back Stitch technique. This stitch is much stronger and stable than the regular Running Stitch, and therefore great for securing edges and working on seams. It takes more thread than the Running Stitch, so it can be used based on the stitch’s purpose.
How to do the Open Back Stitch
 |
 |
| Fig 1: Start by making a single Straight Stitch. | Fig 2: Next, come out from C. This time, instead of going all the way back into the earlier stitch point to make a Back Stitch, you would go only half the way through at D. This makes a small stitch and a gap! |
 |
|
| Fig 3: A finished row looks like the Running Stitch. |
Learn to do the Half Back Stitch/ Open Back Stitch in 2 minutes!
Use this stitch on a pattern
Visit and Subscribe to Sarah’s YouTube Channel
Learn the Open Back Stitch and 305 other stitches from our 600-page eBook.
Related Stitches from the Back Stitch Family
Sarah has been researching and sharing hand embroidery lessons for over 17 years, making it accessible to everyone around the globe.
My eldest sister was a tailoress and showed me how to end threads. One was was to slide the thread in 3 different directions and it would not come undone.
That’s great!
Thank you for sharing this stitch. I love getting all this new (to me) information. Keep it coming!
Thank you, Dottie! It’s encouraging to know you like our new pages.
Sarah, thank you for sharing yet more stitches. Finishing the threads and Open Backstitch are added to my list of needlework. I’ve often woven ends in but not knotted them so far.
Thanks, Maureen. I have always knotted my embroidery work! I think it took me a little time to trust that weaving is as secure as knotting! 😀