Backstitch Seam
A backstitch seam is the strongest hand-sewn seam in knitting. Worked from the wrong side, it produces a continuous line of stitches that resists stretching even under heavy load.
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Method
Bring the needle up through both fabric layers from the wrong side. Move forward by one stitch. Bring the needle down through both layers. Move forward by two stitches. Bring up through both layers. Move back by one stitch. Repeat: down two, back one.
When to use
High-stress seams: shoulder seams in heavy sweaters, the underarm of a fitted top, any seam that will support significant weight. Bag straps and tote bag handles.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Limitations
Visible from the right side as a small bumpy line. Less elastic than mattress stitch. Best reserved for places where strength matters more than invisibility.
Pairing
Combine with mattress stitch for cardigan side seams: backstitch the underarm and top few inches; mattress stitch the rest.
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| st(s) | stitch(es) |
Tips
- Use backstitch for high-stress seams.
- Combine with mattress stitch for the best balance of strength and invisibility.
- Always use the project yarn or a strong matching yarn.
In depth
Backstitch is the most secure seam in hand sewing and adapts well to knitted fabric. The trade-off is a visible seam line and reduced elasticity, which is why backstitch is reserved for stress points rather than used as a general seaming method.