One of our favorite go to stitches for backgrounds is the Nobuko stitch.  While researching to see if there are other variations, because you know there is always a variation or two, I found a sample that used 2 different colors for the basic Nobuko stitch.   It looked good and I will try it on one of my many canvases.

The Double Nobuko is also good for backgrounds and I found a variation where a Cross stitch replaces the two single stitches.

I always find it is easier to try to find a space on the canvas where you can set up a full row of the stitch.  This helps with keeping the stitch straight and avoids mixing up the long and short stitches.

Here is a hint, have a doodle canvas handy when you are trying out new stitches before stitching them on your actual canvas.  This will give you an opportunity to see if you like it and prevent needing to rip it out when you don’t.   Give them a try!

Happy Stitching – Stephanie