Needlepoint Finishing: Mastering the Binding Stitch

What is the Binding Stitch?

The binding stitch is a sturdy, decorative stitch used to wrap and seal the raw edge of your needlepoint canvas. If you’re finishing accessories like belts, keychains, or ornaments, this stitch is your best friend. It creates a polished look, protects the edges from fraying, and adds a final design detail that can subtly match—or boldly contrast—your stitched piece.

Unlike tent stitch or basketweave, the binding stitch isn't about filling space on the canvas. It’s a finishing stitch—used when your needlepoint project is complete and you're ready to give it a durable, clean edge.

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When and Why to Use the Binding Stitch

You’ll most often use the binding stitch for items that don’t get framed or finished with a lot of fabric. Think:

• Needlepoint belts

• Keychains or fobs

• Bag straps

• Bookmarks

• Small decorative tags or ornaments

  
  

Because these pieces get a lot of handling and wear, you need an edge that holds up over time. The binding stitch locks everything in and keeps your canvas from unraveling. It also gives you the chance to add a pop of color, texture, or subtle design finish.

A contrasting orange binding stitch adds an extra pop of color to our Chainlink keychain canvas

How to Do the Binding Stitch Step-by-Step

What You’ll Need:

• Your stitched needlepoint canvas

• Tapestry needle

• Strong thread (Cotton embroidery 6 ply, Pearl Cotton nr 5, ...)

• Embroidery Scissors

Our Chainlink Keychain finished with a contrasting binding stitch border

1. Trim your canvas

Trim the unstitched canvas so you have about a centimetre to fold over.

2. Bring your needle up from the back

Working from right to left, start by anchoring your thread under a couple of stitches on the back of your canvas. Flip your canvas back to the front. Bring the needle and thread to the front as well, coming up two threads left from the last stich on your needlepoint.

3. Fold your canvas

Fold the unstitched part, the raw edge of the canvas to the back so the first stitched row lines up right at the edge.

4. Start stitching

Work from right to left. Make three small whip stitches over the folded canvas edge, inserting your needle into the hole just below your needlepoint stitches and pulling snug — but not too tight. You want it neat, not puckered.

Pro tip: Make sure your needle is going between stitches and canvas, not piercing your stitched rows. This helps keep the front looking tidy and prevents damage to your existing work.

5. Use the "back three, up one" method

After the initial whip stitches, slide your needle back three canvas threads underneath your previous stitches, then up into the next empty hole. Repeat: back three, up one. This overlapping pattern strengthens the edge and creates a seamless look.

6. Finish off

When you reach the end of the row or the end of your thread, tuck the thread under the stitches on the back to secure it. Trim any loose ends neatly.

Watch our full Binding Stitch Tutorial here

Choosing Your Thread Color: Match, Contrast, or Complement?

The binding stitch isn’t just functional—it’s a design choice. You can make the edge blend in or stand out, depending on your aesthetic goals.

Harmonious Choices

Choose a thread color that blends with the background of your design. This is a great option when you want a clean, subtle finish that doesn’t distract from the main stitching.

Examples:

• Navy thread on a navy-dominant belt

• Beige thread for a neutral-toned keychain

  
  

Contrasting Choices

Want to make your edge pop? Choose a bold color that contrasts with the main canvas. This works beautifully for accessories and ornaments where the edge is part of the statement.

Examples:

• Red thread binding on a green design (holiday vibes!)

• Hot pink edge on a black-and-white graphic belt

  
  

Complementary Colors

For something in between, pick a thread that complements your stitched palette without fully matching or clashing. Think of it like picking the trim on a cushion.

Examples:

• Olive green edge on a floral keychain

• Sky blue on a seaside scene

  
  

A Finishing Touch That Makes All the Difference

The binding stitch is one of those final details that elevates your needlepoint from handmade to professionally finished. Whether you’re making gifts or stitching for yourself, learning this technique adds a powerful skill to your needlepoint toolbox.

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