Do you want to learn a simple yet lovely stitch? The blanket stitch is perfect for many projects. What is the blanket stitch? It is a strong, decorative stitch. It often frames edges or holds fabric pieces. Can I use it for more than just edges? Yes, you can use it for many things! It works great for appliqué or as a filler stitch. Many call it the buttonhole stitch, and a buttonhole stitch tutorial would show very similar steps. This guide will show you how to do this stitch, step by step. You will soon make neat, beautiful stitches.
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Grasping the Blanket Stitch
The blanket stitch is a basic hand embroidery stitch. It forms an L-shape along a line. This line can be the edge of fabric or a drawn line. It creates a neat, strong border. People use it often for finishing edges. It also works well for attaching one piece of fabric to another. This is key for appliqué. The stitch looks like a series of small “L” shapes. Each stitch is the same size and distance apart. This creates a clean, even look.
Why Stitch with the Blanket Stitch?
The blanket stitch is useful for many reasons.
* Strong edges: It makes a firm, neat edge. This stops fabric from fraying.
* Lovely look: It adds beauty to your work. It looks good on blankets, clothes, and other items.
* Holds fabric: It joins two pieces of fabric together. This is important for appliqué designs.
* Versatile: You can change its look. Make it long, short, wide, or narrow. You can also vary the distance between stitches.
* Easy to learn: It is a good stitch for beginners. The steps are simple to follow.
What You Need: Tools and Materials
Before you start, gather your tools. Having the right things makes stitching easy.
h4: Picking Your Fabric
Almost any fabric works for blanket stitch.
* Felt: This is a good start. Felt does not fray. This makes neat edges easy.
* Cotton: Basic cotton fabric is fine. Muslin or quilting cotton works well.
* Linen: This fabric gives a classic look. It is a bit stiffer.
* Wool: Great for cozy projects. Wool blankets often use this stitch.
h4: Choosing Your Needle
The right needle is important.
* Sharps: These needles have a sharp point. Use them for tightly woven fabrics.
* Embroidery needles: These are also sharp. They have a larger eye for thicker threads.
* Chenille needles: These are sharp. They have a very large eye. Use them for very thick threads or yarn.
* Blunt needles: Also called tapestry needles. Use them for loose weaves. They slide between threads.
h4: Selecting Your Embroidery Thread for Blanket Stitch
Your thread choice changes the look.
* Embroidery floss: This is the most common. It comes in many colors. It has six strands. You can use all six or fewer strands. For a bolder look, use more strands. For fine details, use one or two.
* Perle cotton: This thread has a pearl-like sheen. It is non-divisible. It looks very neat and smooth. It comes in different weights. Thicker weights make a bolder stitch.
* Wool yarn: For a rustic or cozy feel. Use it on thicker fabrics like felt or wool.
* Metallic thread: Adds sparkle. It can be tricky to work with. Use shorter lengths.
* Satin thread: Gives a very shiny look.
h4: Other Handy Items
- Embroidery hoop: This holds your fabric tight. It helps keep stitches even. Pick a size that fits your project.
- Small sharp scissors: For trimming threads neatly.
- Fabric marker or pencil: For drawing your stitch line. This helps keep stitches straight.
- Ruler: For measuring even stitch lengths.
| Tool/Material | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | The base for your stitches | Felt for beginners, cotton for versatility, wool for warmth. |
| Needle | To pull thread through fabric | Sharps for tight weaves, embroidery needles for floss. |
| Embroidery Thread | What forms the stitch | Floss for range, Perle cotton for neatness, wool for texture. |
| Embroidery Hoop | Keeps fabric taut | Prevents puckering, helps even stitches. |
| Scissors | For cutting thread | Small, sharp ones are best. |
| Fabric Marker/Pencil | To draw lines | Helps guide your stitches, washes away easily. |
Starting Blanket Stitch Correctly
A good start makes the rest of your stitching easy. Here is how to begin.
- Prepare your fabric: Place your fabric in the embroidery hoop. Pull it tight. Make sure there are no wrinkles.
- Mark your line: Use a fabric marker or pencil. Draw a line where you want your stitches. If stitching an edge, draw a line parallel to the edge. This line will guide the top of your stitches.
- Thread your needle: Cut about 18 to 24 inches of embroidery thread for blanket stitch. This length is easy to manage. Shorter lengths prevent knots.
- Knot the end: Tie a small knot at one end of the thread. A simple overhand knot works.
- Start your thread: This step is important for a neat finish.
- Method 1 (Hidden Knot): Bring your needle up from the back of your fabric. Do this a little distance from where your first stitch will be. Make a tiny stitch. Then, bring your needle to the front where your first stitch will start. This hides the knot.
- Method 2 (Waste Knot): Make a knot. Push your needle from the front of your fabric. Do this a few inches from where you will stitch. Work your first few stitches. Then, snip off the knot. The stitches will hold the thread.
How to Do the Basic Blanket Stitch
Now, let’s make the stitch. Follow these steps carefully.
- First Stitch Placement:
- Bring your needle up from the back of the fabric. It should come up at point A. Point A is on the edge of your fabric or your drawn line. This is your starting point.
- Make sure your knot is hidden on the back.
- Making the First L-Shape:
- Put your needle down at point B. Point B is on your fabric, a short distance in from point A. It should be on the drawn line if you are using one.
- Bring your needle up at point C. Point C is directly below point A. It should be the same distance from the edge as point B.
- Important: Keep the working thread under the needle tip as you pull it up. This creates the “L” shape.
- Pull the thread through slowly. Make sure it forms a neat L-shape. The vertical part of the L is the stitch that comes from point A to C. The horizontal part is the thread sitting along the edge (or line) from A to B.
- Making the Next Stitches:
- For the next stitch, put your needle down at point D. Point D is the same distance from B as B is from A. It is along your drawn line or edge.
- Bring your needle up at point E. Point E is directly below point D. It is the same distance from C as D is from B.
- Again, keep the working thread under the needle tip.
- Pull the thread through gently. This forms another L-shape.
- Repeat: Keep making stitches. Each time, put the needle down along your line. Bring it up directly below your previous down-point. Keep the thread under the needle.
- Keep it even: Try to make each stitch the same length. Keep the distance between stitches the same too. This makes your work look very neat.
h5: Simple Stitching Checklist
- Needle up at edge.
- Needle down on line.
- Needle up below first point.
- Thread under needle.
- Pull gently.
- Repeat.
Neat Blanket Stitch Tips
Making your stitches look perfect takes practice. Here are some neat blanket stitch tips:
- Use an embroidery hoop: This keeps your fabric taut. It stops puckers. Stitches lie flat.
- Mark your lines: Use a ruler and fabric marker. Draw two parallel lines. One for the top of your stitches. One for the bottom. This helps keep stitches even.
- Keep tension steady: Pull your thread with the same force each time. Too loose makes baggy stitches. Too tight makes puckers. Aim for just right.
- Use the right thread: Match thread thickness to your fabric. A thin thread on thick fabric looks lost. A thick thread on thin fabric can pucker it.
- Work in good light: This helps you see your stitches clearly. You can spot mistakes early.
- Practice: The more you stitch, the better you get. Start on scrap fabric. Do not fear mistakes!
Exploring Variations of the Blanket Stitch
The basic blanket stitch is just the start. You can change it in many ways. These changes add texture and interest.
h4: Closed Blanket Stitch Variation
The closed blanket stitch variation makes a tighter, more dense edge. Instead of straight “L” shapes, it forms triangles.
- Start as usual: Make your first blanket stitch (A to B to C).
- Next stitch close: For the second stitch, bring your needle down at point F. Point F is right next to point B on your line.
- Bring needle up: Bring your needle up at point G. Point G is right next to point C.
- Close the gap: For the third stitch, put your needle down at point B. This is the same point where the first stitch ended on the line.
- Bring needle up: Bring your needle up at point C. This is the same point where the first stitch ended below the line.
- Forming triangles: This way, each set of three stitches creates a small triangle. The top points meet, and the bottom points meet. You can also make the third stitch’s top point overlap the first stitch’s top point, creating a cross-over effect for more dense triangles.
- Repeat: Continue this pattern. Each stitch uses the previous stitch’s starting point as its end point, making a closed shape.
This variation is great for a very secure edge. It also adds a lot of texture.
h4: Woven Blanket Stitch Pattern
The woven blanket stitch pattern adds even more texture. It involves a second pass of thread. This second thread weaves through the loops of the first blanket stitch row.
- Stitch a regular row: First, make a row of basic blanket stitches. Make sure the loops are open and even. Do not pull them too tight.
- Choose a new thread: Pick a different color or type of thread for weaving. This will make the woven pattern stand out.
- Start weaving: Bring your new thread up from the back, just below the first vertical stitch.
- Weave through loops:
- Pass your needle under the first vertical stitch of your blanket stitch row.
- Then, pass it under the next vertical stitch, skipping the fabric.
- Continue passing the needle under each vertical stitch.
- As you weave, you can go over and under, or simply under each stitch. Experiment to see what you like.
- Pull the thread through gently. It will lie across the top of your blanket stitch loops.
- Finish weaving: When you reach the end of the row, take your needle to the back. Secure your thread.
This makes a very decorative border. It adds depth and color. It’s perfect for decorative edge stitching ideas.
h4: Other Decorative Edge Stitching Ideas
- Ladder Blanket Stitch: Make two parallel rows of blanket stitch. Then, connect the horizontal bars with small straight stitches. This makes a ladder look.
- Whipped Blanket Stitch: Stitch a row of basic blanket stitch. Then, use a second thread. Whip it around each vertical leg of the blanket stitch. This adds a raised, rope-like effect.
- Picot Blanket Stitch: Make a short blanket stitch. Then, make a second stitch into the same holes as the first. This creates a small loop or picot. It’s often used for dainty edges.
- Alternating Heights: Vary the height of your stitches. Make one tall, one short, one tall, etc. This creates a wave pattern.
- Spacing: Change the space between your stitches. Make some close, some far apart. This creates rhythmic patterns.
Uses of the Blanket Stitch
The blanket stitch is very useful. It is not just for blankets!
h4: Embroidery Edge Finishing
This is one of the main uses for the blanket stitch. It provides a clean, sturdy edge. This stops fabric from fraying. It also adds a decorative touch.
* Coasters: Finish the edge of felt or fabric coasters.
* Placemats: Give placemats a handmade, neat border.
* Baby blankets: Add a soft, decorative edge to baby blankets.
* Clothing: Finish raw edges on hems, cuffs, or necklines. It is often seen on felt appliqué on clothes.
h4: Appliqué Embroidery Technique
The blanket stitch is perfect for appliqué. Appliqué means sewing one piece of fabric onto another. The blanket stitch holds the top fabric down. It also hides the raw edge of the top fabric.
- Cut your appliqué shape: Cut out the design you want to add.
- Place on base fabric: Pin or glue the shape onto your main fabric.
- Stitch around the edge: Use the blanket stitch to go around the entire edge of the appliqué. The vertical part of the stitch goes into the base fabric. The horizontal part goes over the edge of the appliqué.
- Secure and decorate: This holds the appliqué firmly. It also adds a nice stitched border. This method is much loved for appliqué embroidery technique for its neatness and durability.
h4: Hand Embroidery Stitches Guide
The blanket stitch is a core stitch in any hand embroidery stitches guide. It is often taught early. It helps build skills needed for more complex stitches.
* Filler stitch: You can use rows of blanket stitch to fill in a shape. Stack rows closely together. Or, make a single spiral of blanket stitch to fill a circle.
* Decorative lines: Stitch a line of blanket stitches as a border or a design element. This could be on a tea towel, a pillow, or a bag.
* Joining fabric: Instead of machine sewing, you can use blanket stitch to join fabric pieces. This is common in felt crafts.
Overcoming Common Mistakes
Even experienced stitchers make mistakes. Do not worry! Most can be fixed.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Stitches are uneven | Inconsistent tension or spacing | Mark your lines carefully. Use a hoop. Practice even pulls. |
| Fabric puckers | Thread pulled too tight | Ease up on thread tension. Do not yank the thread. |
| Stitches look tangled | Thread not under needle properly | Always check thread position. Make sure it stays under the needle. |
| Knots in thread | Too long a thread; friction | Use shorter thread lengths (18-24 inches). Waxing thread helps. |
| Gap between stitches | Stitches are too far apart | Reduce the space between where you put the needle down for each stitch. |
| Stitches lean | Needle not straight | Keep your needle straight as it enters and exits the fabric. |
Finishing Your Blanket Stitch
When you reach the end of your stitching line, you need to secure your thread.
- Last stitch: Make your final blanket stitch.
- Go to the back: Take your needle to the back of your fabric. Do this right after your last stitch.
- Hide the thread:
- Method 1 (Weave under stitches): Weave your needle under a few previous stitches on the back. Do this without piercing the front of the fabric. Make a small loop. Pass your needle through the loop. Pull tight to make a knot. Trim the extra thread close to the knot.
- Method 2 (Tiny stitches): Make two or three very small, hidden stitches on the back of your fabric. Make sure they do not show on the front. Tie a small knot close to the fabric. Trim the thread.
Make sure your finishing is neat. This keeps your work looking tidy. It also stops your stitches from coming undone.
Caring for Your Embroidered Items
Once you have finished your beautiful blanket stitch project, you will want it to last.
- Washing: Most hand embroidery can be gently hand washed. Use cool water and mild soap. Do not wring or twist.
- Drying: Lay flat on a clean towel to air dry. Reshape as needed.
- Ironing: If needed, iron on the back of the embroidery. Use a low heat. Place a clean cloth over the stitches. This protects the thread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
h3: Can I use the blanket stitch for sewing clothes?
Yes, you can! It is a strong stitch. It works well for joining felt pieces. You can also use it for finishing raw edges on garments. It is more decorative than a machine stitch.
h3: Is the blanket stitch hard for beginners?
No, it is one of the easiest stitches to learn. The steps are simple and clear. It is a great stitch to start with. Just follow the steps slowly. Practice on scrap fabric first.
h3: How do I make my blanket stitches all the same size?
Use a ruler and fabric marker. Draw two parallel lines on your fabric. One line for the top of your stitches. The other for the bottom. This helps keep them even. Practice also helps.
h3: What is the difference between blanket stitch and buttonhole stitch?
Many people use these names for the same stitch. Some say the buttonhole stitch is much tighter. It is often used for real buttonholes. The blanket stitch is more open. It is used for decorative edges. But the motion and look are very similar. Often, they are the same. A buttonhole stitch tutorial will show you the exact same stitch technique.
h3: Can I use different colors in one row of blanket stitch?
Yes, absolutely! Change colors as often as you like. This adds bright patterns. Just secure your old thread and start your new thread neatly. You can even use variegated thread for a color-changing effect.
h3: What is the best embroidery thread for blanket stitch?
Embroidery floss (6-strand) and Perle cotton are both excellent choices. Floss lets you pick the thickness. Perle cotton gives a smooth, shiny finish. The best thread depends on your fabric and what look you want. Consider the embroidery thread for blanket stitch that matches your project’s feel.
h3: How can I make my stitches look very neat?
Practice constant tension. Use an embroidery hoop. Mark your fabric lines. Take your time. Do not rush. These neat blanket stitch tips will make your work look professional.
Learning the blanket stitch opens up many creative doors. It is simple, versatile, and beautiful. From embroidery edge finishing to appliqué embroidery technique, it serves many purposes. Keep practicing, and enjoy the process of making lovely stitches! Your hand embroidery stitches guide just got a great new addition.