split stitch

1. Ideally you would want to use an even number of threads for this stitch. I used two strands here.

2. Make a back stitch then bring your needle up half way along the stitch, coming up through the stitch itself (between the two threads) as in picture 1

3. Now bring your needle back down a stitch length along as in picture 2

4. Bring your needle back up through the stitch you have just made (about half way along) and continue in this way

I love split stitch as a filler stitch, especially for hair. It has a lovely texture. It’s also great for stitched hand writing.

Try to keep your stitches even and try it out with 4 or 6 threads to see the different effects.

You can also stitch this backwards if you find it easier. You can create your first stitch and then take your needle down into the middle of the stitch instead of coming up from underneath. Whichever you choose you need to stick to that one as they do look slightly different. Try them both and see what you prefer.