Two schools of thought on that subject. 1) Stitching from the back means you must continually flip it where colors abut each other so keep the pattern on target, the stamped side could still bleed through, but if not, it gives a cleaner looking project. 2) Stitching from the stamped side relieves flipping, gives you instant view to change colors, and you can use the stamp edges as part of the overall effect of shadowing. You can lightly hand wash & air dry the blank canvas before beginning the project to see if it bleeds. Hope this helps. Best wishes for your successful project, looks interesting.