How to Sew a Blanket Stitch

Want a stitch that cleans up edges while looking beautiful? The blanket stitch is for you! The blanket stitch is a decorative and functional hand-sewing stitch commonly used to finish the edges of fabric, reinforce seams, and add a beautiful touch to appliqué and embroidery projects. This stitch essentially forms a line of horizontal loops along the edge of your fabric, helping to prevent fraying while adding a clean, polished look. Whether you're sewing a felt project, finishing the edges of a blanket, or securing fabric layers together, the blanket stitch is a simple yet effective technique to master.

Tips for a Clean Blanket Stitch:

• Even stitch length makes the blanket stitch look polished.
  
  
• Use embroidery floss or a thicker thread for a more visible decorative finish.
  
  
• Keep stitch tension consistent. Pulling too tight will cause puckering while too loose of a stitch will cause loose loops. 

How to Sew a Blanket Stitch:

Click the image below for a quick 30-second video tutorial to see the stitch in action!

And here are written step-by-step instructions for the blanket stitch:

Step 1: Thread your needle with a single or double strand of thread and tie a knot at the end.

Step 2: Insert the needle between your two layers of fabric and pull to the front of your top layer of fabric until the knot catches. 

Step 3: Bring the needle to the back of both layers of fabric and insert it at the same point where you started. Pull through both layers of fabric until you have a small loop of thread. 

Step 4: Insert your needle into this loop of thread and pull gently all the way through. This is your anchor stitch.

Step 5: Bring the needle to the back of both layers of fabric again, and insert it one stitch length away. In our tutorial, we are working right to left, but you can also work left to right depending on your preference. Pull the needle through, leaving a small loop of thread again. This will create the signature "looped" edge of the blanket stitch.

Step 6: Insert your needle into the loop and pull gently. 

Step 7: Repeat Steps 5-6

The blanket stitch is a must-have in any sewist’s skill set, providing both durability and decorative appeal. With these simple steps, you'll be able to create a beautiful and functional edge for your sewing projects. Happy stitching!