From Connie G. Thomas,
Your Guide to Cross-Stitch.
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In this lesson, you will learn how to back stitch a short line.

To learn to stitch a back stitch line, you will need:

• a pair of sharp scissors
• a small embroidery hoop
• a piece of 11-count Aida fabric large enough to overlap the hoop by a few inches
• a short length of embroidery floss - any color
• a size 24 tapestry needle.

Find and mark the center of the fabric. Place the fabric in the hoop and set aside. Cut a 12 to 14 inch length of six-strand embroidery floss. Separate out two strands and thread the tapestry needle.

When back stitching, it is helpful to start with a waste knot. Place the waste knot near the edge of the hoop. Count over two squares from the center of the fabric and bring the threaded needle up from the back of the fabric. The waste knot will keep the floss from pulling through to the front of the fabric as you stitch.