Split Stitch and Variations

Split Stitch * Split Stitch Fill

Split stitch. Begin with a straight stitch from A to B. Pierce this stitch from below, coming up at C and going down a stitch length away at D. Continue making a line. If splitting the previous stitch from below is too challenging try a split back stitch, coming up through the fabric a stitch length away at D and going back down through the middle of the previous stitch at C.

Split stitch fill. Fill a shape using rows of split stitch. To fill with a consistent stitch direction (left), begin with a center guideline, then continue to fill the shape. Alternatively, use the edge of the shape to determine the stitch direction (right). Begin with an outline of half the shape, then work rows going toward the center before repeating on the other side. Begin all rows at the same side of the shape and use fewer strands for a more consistent texture.