Blanket stitch and buttonhole stitch tutorial - how to do them and what the difference is!, by Sarah Homfray Embroidery on YouTube. 10 min 31 s.
- Video length
- 10 min 31 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Draw a straight guide line on your fabric with a pencil. This keeps your stitches even and the same height along the edge.
Thread your needle and tie a small knot at the end. Bring the needle up through the fabric just below the guide line.
For blanket stitch, take the needle down through the fabric above the line, then bring the point back up on the line.
Before pulling the thread tight, pass the needle through the loop you have made. Pull gently so the thread sits flat along the line.
Space the next stitch a little to the right and repeat. Keep the spacing and stitch height even as you work along the edge.
For buttonhole stitch, work the same way but keep the stitches close together with no gap between them.
Add the extra loop at the top of each buttonhole stitch, which gives a stronger, knotted edge.
Finish by taking the needle to the back of the fabric and securing the thread with a small knot.
Tips and common mistakes
Blanket stitch has spaced stitches and suits decorative edges and applique.
Buttonhole stitch uses tight, close stitches with a knotted top edge, so it holds firm around buttonholes.
Keep your loop loose before pulling through, or the stitch will twist and look uneven.
Practice on a scrap of felt first, since it holds its shape and is easy to see.
Questions
What is the main difference between blanket stitch and buttonhole stitch?
Blanket stitch has gaps between stitches and is used for neat decorative edges. Buttonhole stitch packs the stitches tightly and adds a knotted loop at the top, giving a strong edge for buttonholes.
Can I use blanket stitch to stop fabric fraying?
Yes, a closely worked blanket stitch along a raw edge helps stop fraying. Keep the stitches even and close for the best hold.
What thread should a beginner use?
A medium embroidery thread or standard sewing thread works well. Use a needle with an eye big enough for the thread so it does not fray as you sew.
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.
