I could never master the splits in gymnastics, but the Split Stitch? Piece of cake! It results in a great textured line. But take it slow and steady – needle placement is critical for getting this stitch right. It’s not hard – just a little fussy – so take your time. Keep centered (like on a balance beam) and you’ll ace this stitch! This is also referred to as the split back stitch.

This is a basic embroidery stitch and perfect for any design that requires outlining, it provides a braid-like texture when you split the thread in the stitch. The stitch is also used for fine outlines and delicate filling and can be used as a fill stitch when stitched lines are close together. The stitch was used in medieval embroidery for subtle shadings by working silk floss in rows of different shades to create embroidery and tapestry masterpieces.

What sets this stitch apart? You actually split your thread with the point of the needle in the middle of each stitch. That allows your thread to overlap with each stitch, adding texture to your line.

What is the best thread to use for split stitch embroidery?

The best thread to use for this stitch is an untwisted thread, like six strand embroidery floss or a thick Perle cotton, size 5 or 3. (With Perle cotton, the thickness of the thread is larger when the number is smaller.)

For stranded embroidery floss, you can use as few as two strands of floss for a fine line, or all six strands of floss for a thick line of stitching. The important part is to have an even number of strands so your stitch line is balanced.

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How to embroider the split stitch

So – I was really hesitant about this stitch and, once I got sewing, I love it! I had some trial and error (lots of unsewing), until I got the hang of it. The goal of the stitches are to split the stitch in half lengthwise, as well as split the thread in half, forming a nice smooth and even texture.

One (1) Sampler

How to Split Stitch

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Active Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty: Beginner

The split stitch is used in embroidery as an outline stitch or as a stand alone line stitch. Its texture that is achieved by splitting the thread with each stitch is perfect for trees, coral and other elements from nature.

The split stitch is in the back stitch family, going through the thread with each stitch.

Materials

Fabric for your sampler, I prefer a cotton or natural linen for my embroidery projects
6-strand embroidery floss or a heavy weight Perle cotton, like size 5 or 3

Tools

Embroidery hoop
Embroidery needle suitable for your thread choice
Embroidery scissors
Optional: Thimble - once you start using one you will always reach for it when doing hand stitching! Find one that fits your fingers and style.

Instructions

Start by hooping your fabric. With hand embroidery, using a hoop makes it easier to have nice even stitches. Thread your needle with about an 18" length of thread. I used all 6-strands of -strand embroidery floss. This stitch is worked left to right for right handers.

Bring your needle up at A, back down at B, taking a short stitch.
So far, this stitch is similar to the back stitch or stem stitch. But, what we are going to do is now split the thread with our needle, before we take the next stitch. See how I'm splitting the thread with my needle? See C.
Now you are ready to take your next stitch. Go forward to D, stitch back to E and then bring your needle back through the thread again, splitting the stitches in the middle of that stitch. See the red arrow where my needle is splitting the threads?
Continue doing this for your line of the split stitch. Here is my finished sampler.

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Here is a close up of stitching. See how the thread is split when you take the back stitch?

How is this stitch used in embroidery?

This stitch is generally used as an outline stitch. It is great for when you want a heftier stitch with a lot of texture. Use it for monograms, stems for flowers and plants and more! Stitch the lines close together as a filling stitch. If you use it as a filling stitch, always start on the outside and then stitch the inside of your shape to give a nice even outside edge to your hand embroidery design.

How is the split stitch different than the chain stitch?

With this stitch, you literally split the threads when stitching back, before making the next stitch forward in your design. With a chain stitch, you wrap your thread around your needle before taking the next stitch, forming a chain-like texture.

Tips and ideas for stitching the split stitch

When using 6-strand embroidery thread, or a heavier Perle cotton, I like to use a Crewel Embroidery needle. It makes it easier to thread. Or, try a needle threader – once you do, you’ll never struggle to thread your needle again!
Try different types of thread. Silk threads are wonderful (and luxurious) to work in the split stitch.
Vary your stitch length for different looks to the stitch. Very short stitch length and it will look more rope like.
For a great line texture, change the number of thread strands you are working with and the line will change in its texture.
This popular stitch is great for outlining around curves. It gives a nice smooth edge.

Below is a sampler I made with different types and weights of threads so you can see how different types of embroidery threads work with this hand embroidery stitch.

Row 1: 6 strand embroidery floss
Row 2: Pearl cotton size 5
Row 3: Pearl cotton variegated size 3
Row 4: Merino wool yarn
Row 5: Straw silk thread
Row 6: Pearl cotton size 8

Check out all of the embroidery stitch tutorials on Create Whimsy! Browse through other popular hand embroidery stitches like the satin stitch, chain stitch and basic back stitch.