If I want a full-coverage background stitch, I like to use Nobuko. Whether the canvas is big or small, no matter what thread you use, it will look great. Here you see it using a variegated thread, but I have also shaded with it. Its a teach that even beginners can learn; that looks so much more difficult to stitch than it is.
The stitch alternates between long and short stitches in horizontal rows. This is the easiest way to make the stitch If you look along diagonals, the two sizes also alternate,
The key is to set up the stitch at the top or bottom of the area by making a partial line, below. This sets up the sequence properly.
Once this row is completed, add a second row, as you see below.
From here you can continue to fill in the area with the stitch.
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
Patricia says
I am needle pointing an Alaskan salmon design. The fish is in red, white, gray. They background is black.
The salmon is jumping out of water. Need a background stitch which will resemble water but not detract from center stitch.
Also have a Haika geometric desigm around edges.
Thanks for any help.
patriciazrahimi@gmail.com