A foundational hand-sewing stitch where the needle enters the fabric behind the previous stitch's exit point and emerges ahead of it. This overlapping action locks the thread securely, making it one of the strongest hand stitches available. It mimics the appearance and strength of a machine lockstitch and is heavily used for repairing seams or sewing heavy fabrics.
Heard on the job
Use a tight backstitch for the crotch seam so it doesn't pop when they sit down.
Insider tip
A true backstitch looks like a continuous line of stitches on the front side, but the back side will look like a thick, overlapping chain.