How to fill in embroidery stitches

Here are 9 of my go-to hand embroidery stitches for filling in spaces, step-by-step instructions, and examples.

My default stitch for when I need to fill an area in an embroidery pattern is satin stitch but I don’t particularly enjoy stitching it so I’ve been enjoying trying out a range of different filling stitches.

Brick Stitch This is one of the simplest ways to fill a space. Brick stitch is done by stitching staggered lines of back stitch side by side. So once you know your back stitch you're good to go! Similarly, many line stitches (stem, chain, split) can be placed side by side to fill a space.Satin Stitch Another simple but very effective way to fill a small area. Long straight stitches are laid side by side to give a cohesive block of colour. The fewer threads used here the better, as they lie…

Split back stitch, although typically used to follow lines and curves, can also be used to fill in all sorts of shapes in hand embroidery. This simple and fun technique allows for so much flexibility, provides a unique texture to your finished work, and is one of my very favorite alternatives to satin stitch. In this beginner friendly tutorial, I've provided instruction in written, photo, and video format for how to use split back stitch to fill in all sorts of shapes in hand embroidery.

Download and practice these 9 hand embroidery stitches with this free hand embroidery pattern and step-by-step tutorial suited for beginners.

Check out the 10 best hand embroidery stitches for outlining, filling and decorating designs, so you can conquer any hand embroidery project!

Learn different ways to start and end your embroidery stitches without using knots. I show you various methods for different stitches!

Learn how to start and end embroidery stitches with this easy to follow tutorial featuring three simple methods.

Filling stitches to try

The 7 best fill stitches for thick embroidery letters. Learn which stitch add smooth textures and which stitch add extra character.