The herringbone stitch follows two parallel lines, with the thread creating a crisscross pattern between them.

Before beginning, determine:

Stitch Width - The distance between the two parallel stitch lines. Mark both lines with chalk or heat-erasable pen.

Diagonal Stitch Length - The length of the diagonal stitch moving from one stitch line to the other that creates the crosshatch pattern.

Backstitch Length - The length of the small backstitch that secures each diagonal stitch.

These measurements will determine the structure and appearance of the herringbone stitch.