Learn Hand Sewing Blanket Stitch: 10 Decorative Edge Stitches, by HandiWorks on YouTube. 12 min 25 s.
- Video length
- 12 min 25 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Thread your needle and tie a small knot at the end. Pick a thread colour that matches or contrasts with the fabric, depending on the look you want.
Bring the needle up through the fabric about 1 cm from the raw edge. Pull the thread through until the knot sits against the back.
Make a vertical loop by taking the needle down at the same distance from the edge, then bring the tip back up just above the raw edge.
Pass the needle through the loop of thread before you pull it tight. This locks the stitch and forms the classic blanket stitch bar.
Pull the thread gently so the loop lies flat along the edge. Do not pull too hard or the fabric will pucker.
Space the next stitch about 1 cm along the edge and repeat the same loop and pass-through motion. Keep the spacing even.
Continue along the whole edge, keeping the stitches the same height and distance apart. Finish by taking the needle to the back and knotting the thread.
Try a variation once the basic stitch feels natural, such as the chevron or cross blanket stitch, by changing the angle or adding a second pass.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep your tension loose and even so the edge stays flat and does not curl.
Use a chenille or embroidery needle on thick fabric like felt or linen to avoid bending the needle.
Place the fabric in a hoop or frame to keep it taut and make the stitches more uniform.
Practise on a scrap of the same fabric first to work out your stitch spacing.
Questions
What is a blanket stitch used for?
It finishes raw edges neatly and is common on felt, applique, blankets and home decor items. It can also join two fabric edges or be used as a decorative border.
How far apart should blanket stitches be?
About 1 cm apart works well for most fabrics. Keep the spacing and height even for a tidy result, and adjust for thicker or thinner fabric.
Can I do a blanket stitch without a hoop?
Yes. A hoop just helps hold the fabric taut. You can hold the fabric in your hand, but the stitches may be less even.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
