This stitch is used when you need to fill a shape that is too wide for the Satin Stitch.

Although it is called the Long and Short Stitch, only the first row actually uses stitches of differents lengths. Alternate long and short Straight Stitches for the first row, stitched close together with no fabric showing between the stitches, as in the Satin Stitch. For the second row, stitch long Straight Stitches, alternating in line with the short stitches of the first row.

If you change the thread to a different color, you can use this stitch to achieve a shading effect, although a smoother shading can be created with Silk Shading.