Do you think of needlepoint backgrounds like the sky in a jigsaw puzzle? They can seem like a lot of same-same when you just want the project to be finished so you can start another one.
Here are three versatile needlepoint background stitches - or filler stitches - that go anywhere. They will transform the large spaces on your needlepoint canvas from "meh" to "yeah"!
1. Nobuko Needlepoint Background Stitch
This is such a fun little needlepoint background stitch. It uses diagonal stitches but it doesn't really have a direction, so it can go anywhere—even small spaces, and there aren't too many decorative needlepoint stitches that are this versatile.
The Nobuko stitch adds interesting texture to a background or other space. See how it elevates the green apple on this Apple and Pear needlepoint kit design?
The Nobuko stitch is easy to create. It is stitched in rows, like a Continental stitch.
It's best to compensate this stitch as you go by reducing the long diagonal stitch to fit in around other objects in your design. The Nobuku stitch is one of the easier ones to compensate as everything flows in the same direction.
Pro Tip: Use an over-dyed thread with the Nobuko stitch to create realistic sky or water.
2. Upright Cross Needlepoint Filler Stitch
The Upright Cross is a great filler stitch for those niggly little spots where you need a small stitch that doesn't show any direction. It can also be used to add texture to a larger background - but you might want to thin your thread as it is a closely packed stitch (NB: Not all needlepoint threads can be "thinned"; only those that have individual plies).
The Upright Cross stitch offers great coverage and has a luxurious texture. If you are using a stranded thread, consider reducing the thickness so the stitches are not so tightly packed.
We used the Upright Cross stitch on the flower centers of this Sympatico in Pink design.
The Upright Cross is also used in the palest part of this Reindeer ornament..
Stitch the Upright Cross in diagonal rows, as shown in the diagram below. It stitches up fast, so your needlepoint background will soon be a rich tapestry.
Pro Tip: Use a Very Velvet thread to stitch clothing, e.g. a Santa jacket, in the Upright Cross stitch and marvel at the smooth, sumptuous garment you create.
3. Double Brick Needlepoint Background Stitch
This is another versatile stitch that goes anywhere. Some of the reasons why a Double Brick stitch is one of the best go-to decorative needlepoint stitches:
- It's an orderly stitch and is great to fill geometric spaces
- It is scaleable—you can make it small (over two intersections) or larger (over four intersections) so it's great for big and small spaces.
- You can make it horizontal or vertical.
- The Double Brick stitch uses straight stitches so it has a lovely smooth and glossy texture.
Horizontal Double Brick stitch (over 4) on the blue table of the
Apple & Pear Still Life.
Here's how the needlepoint Double Brick stitch is made...
Vertical Double Brick stitch:
Horizontal Double Brick stitch:
We hope you find plenty of uses for these three very versatile, very easy needlepoint background stitches.
Get 10% off when you find your perfect needlepoint kit for fun background stitches. Use code FILLERFOR10 at checkout. Click here to shop needlepoint kits.
