How to Start the Blanket Stitch
Whether finishing a baby blanket or adding extra flair to a valance, a special stitch can make a sewing project much prettier. The blanket stitch is one of the simplest hand-sewing stitches to learn, and also one of the most attractive when done correctly. In the past it was used to finish the edges of blankets, hence the name, but today can be used to embellish projects from table runners to clothing. Although it is similar to the buttonhole stitch, the blanket stitch uses more evenly spaced, smaller stitches.
Instructions
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How To Start The Blanket Stitch
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1
Insert the needle on the right side of the fabric toward the lower end of the fabric line. Use your thumb to hold the thread down and pull through.
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2
Move the needle slightly to the right and insert it at the upper edge of the fabric line. This makes the thread come out just below the lower line. Do not pull the thread tight.
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3
A small loop will appear. Draw the thread through the loop and pull tight.
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4
Place the needle on the lower end of the fabric line just to the right of the first stitch.
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5
Moving the needle slightly to the right, insert it at the upper fabric line and push through. Do not pull the thread tight.
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6
Draw the thread through the small loop which appears and draw tight.
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7
Repeat these steps until the edging is complete.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Practice on a scrap of material before using this stitch to finish an actual project.
Always sew from left to right when using the blanket stitch.
The blanket stitch can be varied by sloping the stitches either left or right. The stitch can also be varied by grouping two or three stitches together, leaving a small space and then grouping two or three more stitches together.
To create an embroidery effect, use two different shades of thread and place one color over the other as the stitches are made.
Thicker thread makes this stitch more decorative.
To save your fingers some pain, place a thimble over your index finger and push the needle through the fabric with it.
Do not knot the thread before pulling it through the fabric. Knotted thread used as an anchor can cause the fabric to bunch or pull. Instead hold or anchor the thread in place with your finger until each stitch is complete.
