When creating split stitch, you take the needle through the thread of the stitch, splitting the thread and anchoring it at the same time.
This makes for a great outlining stitch, good for curves and straight lines alike.
Steps to Create a Split Stitch
Step 1: Preparation
Cut a length of thread, approximately 12 to18 inches long, to ensure it is manageable and doesn't tangle easily. Thread the needle and knot the end of the thread to prevent it from pulling through the fabric. (see our video - Getting Started In Hand Stitching for a simple starting knot , or the Getting Started in Hand Stitching blog page for a description with photos.)
If you are using our stitch guide, mark your fabric. For practice stitching, pencil works well. I have used a 2B pencil here, which is soft enough to make clear marks.
Step 2: Starting the Stitch
Insert the needle into the fabric from the underside at the point where you want to start your stitch. Pull the thread through until the knot rests against the fabric.
Step 3: Making the Stitches
Push the needle back into and through the fabric a short distance away and pull the thread flat against the surface of the fabric.
Holding the thread flat against the fabric, bring the needle up approximately halfway between the two ends of the stitch, splitting the thread with the needle.
Take the needle back down through the fabric half a stitch length along. Then bring the needle back up half a stitch length back from the end of the last stitch.
You will be creating long stitches on the front of the fabric which are pierced by the beginning of the next stitch. The length of each stitch can vary but typically ranges from 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch.
Step 4: Continuing the Pattern
Continue the split stitch by repeating the process. The evenness of the stitches will contribute to the overall appearance of your stitching.
Step 5: Finishing the Stitch
When you reach the end of your line of stitching, bring the needle to the under side of the fabric.
Make a small knot close to the fabric to secure the thread. Trim any excess thread with scissors. (see our video - Getting Started in Hand Stitching for a simple end knot, or the Getting Started in Hand Stitching blog page for a description with photos.)
Variations on Split Stitch
You can also create a split stitch with a sewing motion. To do this, you need to change your stitching direction. See our video for a demonstration of creating split stitch with a sewing motion.
Another variation of split stitch is the Split Back stitch. With this stitch, you bring your needle to the front of the fabric ahead of the stitching, and split the thread as you push the needle back into the fabric. It is a little easier to split the thread, as you are working from the front of the stitching, however as you can see, this stitch uses a lot more thread than the other split stitches.
Applications of Straight Stitch
Split stitch can be used to create an outline, as a filling stitch (see our starfish above) and to pad Satin stitch.
With an effect similar to a tiny chain stitch, it gives a different look to Outline stitch and Stem stitch.
Watch our video tutorial for Stem stitch, and see the difference between creating stem stitch and outline stitch.
Using a different thread can give you very different effects, from the same stitch.
Our sample flower with the centre stitched in straight stitch.
In this thread, a cotton crochet thread, the chain stitch effect is clear to see.
