Tent Stitches
![Tent Stitches](http://spider-spun.com/cdn/shop/articles/C42620CC-72E1-47A5-99E0-A839BF8880BE_{width}x.jpg?v=1668072878)
When you think of needlepoint, you probably think of a diagonal stitch that looks like this: /////
This classic stitch is actually part of a family of stitches called “tent” stitches. The tent stitches all look exactly the same from the front, but very different on the back. Like me, you’re probably wondering, “why would I bother learning three different stitches when they all look the same?”
Once you start stitching, you’ll quickly see that they serve different purposes because they have different levels of coverage. A stitch that is good for detail work (half-cross stitch) is not good for backgrounds (basketweave stitch).
Tent Stitch Cheatsheet
The back of tent stitches — from left to right: half-cross stitch, continental stitch, basketweave stitch
Half-Cross Stitch
A low coverage stitch that’s ideal for detail areas and one-off stitches.
Continental Stitch
A medium coverage stitch good for small to medium sized areas.
Basketweave Stitch
A full coverage stitch that’s ideal for medium to large areas and backgrounds.
Step-by-Step Video Tutorials
Half-Cross Stitch
Continental Stitch
Basketweave Stitch