Mastering Back Stitch Embroidery: Essential Techniques and Creative Applications

1. Introduction to Back Stitch Embroidery

Back stitch is the unsung hero of embroidery—a foundational technique that stitches together centuries of craft tradition and modern creativity. At its core, back stitch forms a solid, continuous line by working each stitch backward along your design, making it the go-to method for outlining, lettering, and even reinforcing seams. Its versatility shines whether you're sketching delicate floral stems, adding crisp text to a garment, or securing the structure of your latest textile project.

What makes back stitch so beloved? It’s adaptable to nearly any fabric, from lightweight cotton to sturdy denim, and serves as the backbone for countless decorative variations like the whipped and Pekinese stitches. In this guide, you’ll master the essentials: step-by-step execution, fabric-specific adjustments, troubleshooting tips, and creative embellishments. Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or just threading your first needle, get ready to unlock the full potential of back stitch embroidery.

Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction to Back Stitch Embroidery
• 2. Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Back Stitch Execution
• 3. Decorative Variations: Whipped and Pekinese Stitches
• 4. Practical Applications in Garment and Textile Projects
• 5. Back Stitch vs. Running Stitch: Strength and Use Cases
• 6. Troubleshooting Common Back Stitch Challenges
• 7. Creative Project Ideas: Combining Stitches for Artistry
• 8. Advanced Techniques: Large Fills and Material Adaptations
• 9. Conclusion: Elevating Your Embroidery Mastery
• 10. FAQ: Back Stitch Essentials

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Back Stitch Execution

Back stitch may look simple, but achieving those crisp, even lines takes a blend of technique and a dash of patience. Let’s break down the essentials so your stitches look sharp—every single time.

2.1 Core Technique: Stitch Formation and Needle Positioning

Back stitch is all about rhythm and precision. Here’s how to get it right:

1. Prepare Your Fabric and Design Start by transferring your pattern to the fabric—use iron-on transfers, tracing paper, or a light box. Choose embroidery floss (2–3 strands is typical for visibility) and thread your needle.

2. Start the Stitch Bring your needle up from the back of the fabric at your design’s starting point. Insert the needle down a stitch length ahead (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch, depending on your fabric).

3. Create the Backward Motion Pull the thread through to complete the first stitch. Next, bring the needle up a stitch length ahead of your previous insertion point. Insert the needle down at the endpoint of the previous stitch—this “backward” motion creates the signature solid line.

4. Continue the Line Alternate moving forward (needle up) and backward (needle down) to form a seamless, unbroken line. Consistent stitch length is key—aim for 1/8 inch (3 mm) for fine outlines or 1/4 inch (6 mm) for bolder work.

Pro Tips: - Work from right to left for most projects (left to right is possible with practice). - Shorter stitches yield cleaner lines, especially on curves or detailed sections. - Adjust stitch length at the ends of lines to avoid unevenness.

Drawing inspiration from expert video tutorials, you’ll find that some stitchers prefer the “single-sided” back stitch for floss efficiency and control, while others use a double-sided approach for a more substantial line on both fabric sides. Learn how to use an embroidery machine effectively with proper needle positioning. Try both and see which feels most natural—you might even switch techniques depending on the project.

2.2 Fabric-Specific Adjustments and Stitch Length Optimization

Not all fabrics are created equal, and your back stitch technique should flex to fit:

- Lightweight Fabrics: Use shorter stitches to prevent puckering and keep lines crisp.

- Medium/Heavy Fabrics: Longer stitches are fine, but keep tension even to avoid bulkiness.

- Stretchy or Sheer Fabrics: Stabilize with interfacing or a hoop to prevent distortion. For knits, gentle tension is crucial—don’t pull too tightly, or you’ll end up with gathered stitches.

A hoop can be your best friend here, maintaining consistent tension and preventing puckering. For especially tricky fabrics, consider adding a stabilizer or interfacing to the back.

2.3 Troubleshooting Uneven Stitches and Curved Lines

Even the best stitchers run into hiccups. Here’s how to fix common issues:

- Uneven Stitches: Check your tension—too loose, and the stitches look sloppy; too tight, and the fabric puckers. Practice keeping your stitch length consistent, especially on curves.

- Wobbly Curves: Shorten your stitch length as you round tight corners. This allows the line to follow the curve smoothly, rather than looking jagged or angular.

- Thread Snags or Tangles: Use shorter lengths of floss (about 15–20 inches) and separate strands before threading. If you notice knots, pause and gently untangle before continuing.

- Direction Challenges: If you’re struggling to keep your line straight, slow down and use a well-lit workspace. Some stitchers find it helpful to rotate the hoop or fabric as they work, keeping their hand in a comfortable position.

YouTube tutorials highlight that there’s no single “right” way to back stitch—experiment with different methods (stab, sew, or double-sided) and find your groove. The most important thing? Consistency and enjoyment. Your unique touch is what makes hand embroidery special.

3. Decorative Variations: Whipped and Pekinese Stitches

Ready to level up your back stitch game? Decorative variations like the whipped backstitch and Pekinese stitch add texture, color, and dimension—turning simple outlines into eye-catching borders and motifs.

3.1 Whipped Backstitch: Rope-Like Textures and Color Contrast

The whipped backstitch transforms a basic line into a twisted, rope-like accent—perfect for borders, stems, or candy-cane effects.

What You’ll Need:

• Tapestry needle (blunt tip to avoid snagging)
• Contrasting threads for bold color effects (or same color for subtle texture)

How-To:

1. Stitch a Base Line: Work a row of backstitches, keeping your stitch length consistent (4–6 mm is ideal for whipping).
2. Thread the Tapestry Needle: Use a contrasting color for maximum impact.
3. Whip the Stitches: Bring the needle up at the start of your backstitch line. Pass it under each backstitch in the same direction (e.g., right to left), without piercing the fabric. Pull gently to create even tension and a twisted, rope-like appearance.
4. Finish Off: At the end, take the needle to the back of the fabric and secure.

Pro Tips:

• Always whip in the same direction for a uniform twist.
• Use bold color combinations for a “candy cane” effect, or match colors for a raised, stem-stitch look.
• Elara Embroidery’s tutorials showcase how whipped backstitch can add dynamic borders or subtle shading to machine embroidery designs.

3.2 Pekinese Stitch: Interlaced Loops for Borders and Motifs

The Pekinese stitch is a showstopper—interlacing loops along a backstitch base to create dimensional, decorative borders.

What You’ll Need:

• Sharp or tapestry needle (choose based on fabric)
• Contrasting threads for layered effects

How-To:

1. Create a Backstitch Foundation: Stitch a straight or curved line of backstitches.
2. Thread a Second Needle: Use a different color for contrast.
3. Interlace the Loops:
   • Bring the needle up just below the backstitch line.
   • Skip the first stitch, then pass the needle under the second backstitch.
   • Loop back over the first stitch, pulling through loosely to form a loop.
   • Continue, alternating under and over each backstitch for interconnected loops.
4. Adjust Loop Size: Vary your tension for denser or more open patterns.

Design Inspiration:

• Whipped backstitch is ideal for outlining shapes, adding bold accents, or mimicking stem stitch.
• Pekinese stitch shines in floral motifs, geometric borders, or anywhere you want a touch of dimensional flair.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Whipped Backstitch: Keep your whipping direction consistent to avoid a messy look. Use a tapestry needle to prevent snagging.
• Pekinese Stitch: Adjust loop size as you go—too tight, and the loops disappear; too loose, and they look sloppy. Keep your rhythm for evenly spaced loops.

Mastering these decorative variations opens up a world of creative possibilities. Experiment with color, texture, and placement—your embroidery will never look ordinary again.

4. Practical Applications in Garment and Textile Projects

Back stitch isn’t just a foundational embroidery technique—it’s the workhorse behind crisp outlines, detailed features, and even sturdy seams in garments and textiles. Let’s explore how this versatile stitch shines in real-world projects, from outlining whimsical illustrations to repairing your favorite pair of jeans.

4.1 Outlining Designs and Adding Fine Details

If you’ve ever admired the clean, defined edges in embroidered art or marveled at the precision of stitched lettering, chances are you were looking at the magic of back stitch. Its continuous, unbroken thread path makes it the gold standard for outlining shapes, text, and intricate motifs.

Why Back Stitch for Outlining?

- Handles Curves Like a Pro: The flexibility of back stitch allows it to hug curves and contours, making it ideal for organic forms—think floral vines, waves, or animal silhouettes.

- Sharp, Legible Lettering: Whether you’re stitching a name on a baby blanket or adding a quote to a wall hanging, back stitch forms crisp, readable lines that stand out beautifully.

- Contrast and Definition: In multi-color designs, a back-stitched outline provides a bold edge that helps design elements pop.

Real-World Inspiration:

Molly and Mama’s embroidery projects are a testament to the power of back stitch. From transforming a child’s sketch into a keepsake wall hanging to creating tropical-inspired art, Lauren’s approach highlights how this stitch can turn everyday drawings into heirloom pieces. She recommends using 2–3 strands of embroidery floss for most outlines and emphasizes the importance of consistent stitch length—shorter stitches for tight curves, slightly longer for straight lines.

Tips for Flawless Detailing:

- Facial Features: Use back stitch for tiny eyes, eyebrows, or mouths in portraits—short, even stitches deliver lifelike results.

- Lettering: Trace your text lightly on fabric, then follow the lines with back stitch for precision.

- Layering Techniques: Combine back stitch with French knots or brick stitch to add dimension and texture to your work.

Pro Tip: Always use an embroidery hoop to maintain even tension and prevent puckering—especially when outlining detailed designs.

4.2 Securing Seams and Functional Repairs

Back stitch isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a powerhouse for functional sewing, too. When you need a seam that can withstand daily wear and tear, back stitch delivers strength that rivals machine stitching.

Why Choose Back Stitch for Repairs?

- Superior Strength: Thanks to its overlapping structure, back stitch creates a continuous, solid line that resists unraveling—making it perfect for high-stress areas like denim seams, bag handles, or towel edges.

- Precision Control: Unlike running stitch, which leaves small gaps and is best for temporary holds, back stitch locks fabric layers together tightly, ensuring durability.

- Versatile Applications: Use it to repair ripped jeans, reinforce towel hems, or attach embroidered patches with confidence.

Expert Insights:

As highlighted in Elara Embroidery’s and Sarah’s Hand Embroidery tutorials, back stitch is often the stitch of choice for hand-sewing seams in garments. It’s especially handy when machine access is limited or when working on small, intricate pieces where control is key.

MaggieFrame Magnetic Hoops: Elevate Your Garment Embroidery

When working on garment repairs or adding embroidered details, MaggieFrame magnetic embroidery frames and hoops provide superior fabric stability. Their powerful magnetic system ensures your fabric stays flat and evenly tensioned, reducing the risk of puckering or misalignment—especially important for thick materials like denim or towels. The even pressure distribution of MaggieFrame hoops allows for precise, frustration-free stitching, whether you’re reinforcing seams or embellishing garments.

Pro Tip: For garment repairs, always match your thread color to the fabric for a seamless look—or choose a contrasting color for a bold, visible mend!

5. Back Stitch vs. Running Stitch: Strength and Use Cases

Choosing the right stitch can make or break your project—literally. Let’s break down the key differences between back stitch and running stitch so you can stitch smarter, not harder.

Strength and Durability

Back Stitch

- Overlapping Stitches: Forms a continuous, unbroken line—think of it as the “steel beam” of hand-sewn seams.

- Maximum Strength: Ideal for high-stress areas (permanent seams, repairs).

- Thread Usage: Uses more thread due to overlap, but delivers unmatched durability.

Running Stitch

- Dashed Line: Creates a simple in-and-out pattern with visible gaps.

- Weaker Hold: Best for gathering, basting, or quilting—situations where you might want to remove the stitches later.

- Thread Economy: Uses less thread, making it faster but less secure.

Appearance

Use Cases

Technique and Skill Level

- Back Stitch: Requires precision and a bit more time, but rewards you with a professional finish and long-lasting results.

- Running Stitch: Beginner-friendly and speedy, but best reserved for temporary or low-stress uses.

Stitch Density and Flexibility

Key Takeaways:

- For anything that needs to last—like garment seams or visible outlines—back stitch is your best friend.

- For quick, temporary work or when you need flexibility, running stitch will do the trick.

6. Troubleshooting Common Back Stitch Challenges

Even seasoned embroiderers hit a snag—literally. Here's how to tackle the most common back stitch headaches so your work always looks polished and professional.

6.1 Fixing Tension Imbalances and Thread Breaks

Common Culprits:

• Loose or Tight Stitches: Can result from incorrect thread tension or mismatched needle/thread combinations.
• Thread Snags or Breaks: Often caused by dull needles, poor-quality thread, or tension extremes.

Solutions:

• Adjust Thread Tension:
  • For machine embroidery, set upper thread tension between 2–6 (on Brother machines) and test on scrap fabric.
  • Use a bobbin tension gauge to maintain 18–22 grams for standard embroidery.
• Re-thread and Re-bobbin:
  • Double-check that threads pass through all guides—one missed guide can throw everything off.
• Needle Choice:
  • Replace dull or damaged needles regularly. Use a sharp #75/11 needle for general embroidery.
• Thread Quality:
  • Switch to a new thread cone if breaks persist, and match bobbin and top thread colors to mask minor inconsistencies.
• Machine Maintenance:
  • Clean your machine frequently to prevent lint buildup, which can affect tension and stitch quality.

Pro Tip: Slow down your machine speed for intricate designs to reduce the risk of thread breakage or skipped stitches.

6.2 Preventing Fabric Puckering and Hoop Marks

Nothing ruins a beautiful design faster than puckered fabric or unsightly hoop marks. Here's how to keep your project smooth from start to finish.

Stabilizer Selection and Hooping Techniques:

• Choose the Right Stabilizer:
  • Use cut-away stabilizer for stretchy fabrics and tear-away for sturdier materials.
  • For delicate fabrics, adhesive spray can help hold everything in place without stretching.
• Hoop Technique:
  • Fabric should be taut but not stretched—think "drum tight," not "trampoline tight."
  • Always loosen the hoop screw before hooping to avoid distorting the fabric.
• Re-hoop if Needed:
  • If puckering occurs mid-design, stop and re-hoop to correct tension.
• Reduce Stitch Density:
  • For thin fabrics, lower the stitch density to prevent stress and distortion.
• Pre-shrink Fabric:
  • Wash and dry your fabric before starting to minimize post-embroidery shrinkage.

MaggieFrame's Advantage: For persistent issues, consult professional embroidery machine repair near me services. For garment embroidery, MaggieFrame magnetic hoops distribute pressure evenly across the fabric, dramatically reducing the risk of hoop marks and distortion—especially in high-density or large-area projects. Their user-friendly design makes it easier to maintain consistent tension, even on tricky materials.

Finishing Touch: After stitching, press the reverse side of your embroidery with steam to relax any minor puckering.

With these troubleshooting tips and the right tools in your arsenal, you'll be ready to tackle any back stitch challenge that comes your way—no sweat, no puckers, just beautiful, professional results.

7. Creative Project Ideas: Combining Stitches for Artistry

What if you could transform a simple sketch into a tactile work of art—one that leaps off the fabric with texture, color, and dimension? That’s the magic of combining back stitch with other embroidery techniques, especially French knots. This creative synergy is fueling a renaissance in outline embroidery, which is growing at a remarkable 15% CAGR, thanks to the explosion of DIY crafting and the visual storytelling power of social media.

Inspiration from Art and Market Trends

Outline embroidery—where back stitch reigns supreme—has become the backbone of modern textile artistry. Whether you’re outlining whimsical florals, sketching portraits, or adding crisp text, back stitch provides the solid lines that anchor your design. But the real artistry happens when you layer in other stitches for contrast and depth.

Take French knots, for example. These tiny, tactile dots are perfect for adding eyes to an animal, the center of a flower, or even a sprinkle of texture across a mossy landscape. Want to make a child’s drawing pop? Start by tracing the sketch onto fabric, outline it with back stitch, then use French knots to bring key details to life—think twinkling stars or the glint in a cartoon eye.

Design Strategies for Mixed-Media Embroidery

- Outline + Detail: Use back stitch to define borders and shapes, then pepper in French knots for highlights—like the pollen in a daisy or the sparkle in a smile.

- Layered Textures: Combine back stitch lines with clusters of French knots to create dimensional effects, as seen in botanical embroideries or abstract labyrinths.

- Mixed-Media Effects: Don’t stop at French knots. Pair back stitch with satin stitch for lush fills, or whipped backstitch for candy-cane borders and rope-like accents.

Crewel Ghoul’s contemporary examples showcase how these combinations can turn even the simplest sketch into a gallery-worthy piece. Their work often features bold back stitch outlines, playful French knot embellishments, and a fearless mix of color and thread type. The result? Embroidery that’s as much about texture and surprise as it is about line and form.

Bringing It All Together

Here’s a workflow to ignite your next project:

1. Transfer your design—freehand, template, or digital pattern.

2. Outline with back stitch for crisp, confident lines.

3. Add French knots wherever you want texture or a pop of interest.

4. Embellish further with whipped backstitch or other decorative variations.

As the embroidery market continues to evolve—driven by machine embroidery innovations, e-commerce kit availability, and a growing focus on sustainability—there’s never been a better time to experiment. So grab your floss, let your imagination roam, and stitch your own story, one outline and knot at a time.

8. Advanced Techniques: Large Fills and Material Adaptations

Back stitch isn't just for outlining—when wielded with intention, it can fill vast spaces and conquer even the trickiest fabrics. Ready to move beyond the basics? Let's dive into advanced strategies for large-area fills and material-specific adaptations.

8.1 Efficient Large-Area Filling with Brick Wall Patterns

Filling backgrounds or bold shapes with back stitch requires more than just repetition—it's about technique and resourcefulness. Enter the brick wall pattern: by offsetting each row of back stitches by half a stitch length, you mimic the strength and cohesion of bricklaying. This approach distributes tension evenly, reduces visible connections, and creates a seamless, professional-looking fill.

How to Master the Brick Wall Fill:

• Offset Rows: Start each new row halfway along the previous row's stitches.
• Guideline Creation: Use temporary markers or basting stitches to keep your rows aligned and your spacing consistent.
• Thread Management: Use 2–3 strands of floss to avoid bulk, cut threads to manageable lengths (about 12 inches), and separate strands before threading to minimize tangles and waste.
• Tension Control: Test your tension on scrap fabric, adjusting incrementally until your stitches lay flat without puckering. Stabilizers—cut-away or tear-away—are your best friends for dense fills.

Comparison with Alternative Fills:

Pro Tips:

• Alternate your stitching direction (left-to-right, then right-to-left) to balance fabric tension and avoid warping.
• Anchor threads securely with away knots or thread nets to keep your fill tidy.

With these methods, back stitch can confidently fill even the largest spaces—without the frustration of puckering or excess thread waste.

8.2 Stitching on Challenging Fabrics: Knits, Sheers, and Metallics

Every fabric has its quirks—but with the right adaptations, back stitch can shine on even the most finicky materials. Advanced users benefit from multi needle embroidery machine capabilities when working with complex materials.

Stretchy Knits and Elastic Fabrics

• The Challenge: Stretchy fabrics like jersey or spandex tend to distort under tension, risking wavy lines or broken threads.
• Adaptations:
  • Use shorter stitches (1/4 inch or less) to reduce strain.
  • Always stabilize with interfacing or fusible web, letting stitches "float" above the fabric.
  • Choose cotton or silk threads for flexibility; avoid stiff metallics unless you're after a decorative effect.
  • Stitch in the direction of fabric stretch to align with natural movement.

Sheer Fabrics (Organza, Tulle)

• The Challenge: Sheers expose every stitch and thread end, and are prone to tearing.
• Adaptations:
  • Use fine threads (single-strand floss or silk) for subtlety.
  • Layer over a stabilizer or water-soluble topping to prevent distortion.
  • Keep backtracking to a minimum and anchor threads with small knots or tails to avoid show-through.

Unconventional Threads (Metallics, Glitter)

• The Challenge: Metallic threads are slippery, stiff, and prone to tangling.
• Adaptations:
  • Cut threads short (12–18 inches) and use thread conditioner for smoother stitching.
  • Loosen your tension and increase stitch spacing to accommodate bulk.
  • Opt for sharp, beading needles (size 10–12) to pierce fabric cleanly.

Comparison Table: Material Adaptations

General Best Practices:

• Always stabilize unstable fabrics.
• Match thread weight and fiber to your fabric.
• Test on a scrap before committing to your final piece.

By tailoring your approach to each fabric and thread, you'll unlock new creative possibilities—no material is off-limits when you're armed with the right know-how.

9. Conclusion: Elevating Your Embroidery Mastery

Mastering back stitch is more than learning a single technique—it’s about unlocking a world of creative potential. From achieving stitch consistency and exploring decorative variations to adapting for challenging fabrics, you now have a toolkit to elevate every project. Remember, experimentation is where artistry thrives. And when it comes to garment embroidery, using tools like MaggieFrame magnetic hoops can ensure your fabric stays perfectly tensioned, letting your creativity shine without frustration. Keep stitching, keep exploring, and watch your embroidery skills soar.

10. FAQ: Back Stitch Essentials

10.1 Q: What is the ideal stitch length for back stitch?

A: The ideal stitch length for back stitch generally ranges from 1/8 inch (about 3 mm) for fine outlines to 1/4 inch (about 6 mm) for bolder lines. The best length depends on your fabric and the detail of your design—smaller stitches work best for intricate patterns or curves, while longer stitches suit straight lines or heavier fabrics. Consistency is key for a polished look, but don’t be afraid to adjust slightly to fit your project.

10.2 Q: How do I keep my stitches even and neat?

A: Keeping stitches even comes down to practice and a few simple habits. Use a well-lit workspace and consider marking guidelines on your fabric. Work slowly, bringing your needle up and down at precise points along your design. An embroidery hoop helps maintain even tension, and regularly checking your progress ensures you stay on track. Remember, patience pays off—over time, your hand will naturally find a consistent rhythm.

10.3 Q: What’s the best way to start and finish a back stitch line?

A: To start, knot the end of your thread and bring the needle up from the back of the fabric. For a neat finish, weave the thread under several stitches on the reverse side before trimming. This secures your work and prevents unraveling. Some embroiderers also use a small knot or loop to anchor the thread, especially on delicate fabrics.

10.4 Q: How can I make smooth curves with back stitch?

A: For smooth, flowing curves, shorten your stitch length as you approach a bend. This allows the line to follow the curve without looking jagged or angular. Take your time—rotate your hoop or fabric as needed to keep your hand comfortable and your stitches precise. Practice on scrap fabric to get a feel for how different stitch lengths affect the curve.

10.5 Q: Which threads and needles work best for back stitch?

A: Six-stranded cotton embroidery floss is a popular choice—use 2–3 strands for most projects, or more for a chunkier look. For needles, a sharp embroidery or crewel needle (sizes 7–9) works well with 2–3 strands, while a finer needle (size 8 or 9) is best for single-strand work. Always match your needle size to your thread and fabric for the smoothest stitching experience.

10.6 Q: How do I prevent puckering or tension issues?

A: Prevent puckering by keeping your fabric taut in a hoop and using gentle, even tension as you stitch. Don’t pull the thread too tightly—aim for stitches that lay flat but don’t distort the fabric. For stretchy or sheer materials, use a stabilizer or interfacing to add support. If you notice puckering, pause and adjust your tension or re-hoop the fabric before continuing.

10.7 Q: Can I use back stitch on all types of fabric?

A: Yes! Back stitch is incredibly versatile and works on everything from lightweight cotton to sturdy denim. For delicate fabrics, use finer threads and shorter stitches; for heavier materials, longer stitches and thicker threads are appropriate. Always test on a scrap piece if you’re unsure, and adjust your technique to suit the fabric’s weight and weave.

10.8 Q: What are some creative ways to use back stitch in embroidery projects?

A: Back stitch is perfect for outlining shapes, adding text, and creating detailed motifs. Combine it with French knots for texture, or use decorative variations like whipped or Pekinese stitch for added flair. It’s also great for functional uses—securing seams, repairing garments, or attaching patches. Let your imagination guide you—back stitch is a foundation for both classic and contemporary embroidery artistry!

10.9 Q: How do I secure my thread at the end so it doesn’t unravel?

A: To finish, pass your needle under several stitches on the back of your work, then pull the thread through to create a small loop. Pass the needle through this loop and tighten gently to form a knot. Trim the excess thread close to the knot. This method keeps your embroidery secure and tidy.

10.10 Q: Is it okay if my stitches aren’t perfect?

A: Absolutely! Hand embroidery is as much about personal expression as it is about technique. Small quirks and variations give your work character and show that it was made by hand. Focus on enjoying the process and improving with each project—perfection is less important than creativity and joy in stitching.