Blanket stitch is a versatile embroidery stitch that can be used for functional or decorative purposes. Use it on the edge of blankets, quilts or tea-towels or for sewing felt toys and accessories.
HOW TO SEW A BLANKET STITCH
Step 1: Knot the end of your thread. It can be double or single depending on the look you would like to achieve and the thickness of your thread. To start, bring the needle through the middle of the 2 layers up to the top. This way the knot will be concealed between the layers of fabric.
Step 2: The first stitch is done a little differently to the rest of the blanket stitches. Bring the needle down to the bottom layer and then push it up through the same hole the thread first came through.
Step 3: Stop before you have almost pulled the thread through and put the needle through the loop.
Step 4: Now you can pull the thread tight and this will form your starting stitch.
Step 5: Put the needle through your fabric layers from the top down a short distance from your first stitch. Where the needle comes out at the bottom, wrap the thread underneath the needle as pictured. I find it easiest to stitch from left to right but you might prefer sewing in the opposite direction.
Step 6: Pull tight and you have your first blanket stitch. See how the thread forms an attractive border along the edge.
Step 7: Continue this same step – needle down from top to bottom with the thread caught in underneath.
What will you be sewing with your blanket stitch?
Try it on my free felt pincushion pattern. Blanket stitch makes an attractive border around the top and bottom of the pin cushion. Use a thicker contrasting stitch for a trendy handmade look.
READ MORE IN MY HAND STITCHING SERIES
- PART 1 – 6 Basic Hand Stitches
- PART 2 – How to Sew a Seam by Hand – Running Stitch and Backstitch
- PART 3 – How to Sew Whip Stitch
- PART 4 – How to Backstitch
- PART 5 – How to Sew Blanket Stitch
- PART 6 – How to Sew a Ladder Stitch for an Invisible Closure
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