The blanket stitch is a versatile embroidery stitch ideal for beginners. It can be used at hems, for surface embroidery, as decorative frames or borders, and for attaching elements in embroidery projects. With open half-loops resembling a reversed L shape, it can be worked straight, curved, or around corners, making it highly adaptable for various applications.
What Is Blanket Stitch?
Blanket stitch is a looped open-edge stitch used to create a neat line along fabric edges. It features vertically spaced bars linked by a horizontal loop making it suitable for outlining shapes, edge finishing, securing appliqué, decorative borders, visible mending and adding texture to designs. This continuous series of interlocked loops serves both functional and decorative purposes, making it ideal for surface embroidery.
How to Work Blanket Stitch in Surface Embroidery (Step-by-Step)
Below is the most beginner-friendly method to work blanket stitch on the surface, not just edges.
Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
What You’ll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Embroidery hoop sized for practice cloth
- Embroidery needle, size between 1 and 5
- Small sharp scissors
- Pencil or water soluble pen
- Ruler
Materials
- Small square of cotton fabric for practicing
- Six-strand embroidery floss
Step 2: Bring the Needle Up at the Starting Point
Insert the needle from the back of the fabric and pull it through the front at your starting point. Leave a small tail at the back and secure it with a knot or waste knot.
Step 3: Decide the Height of Your Stitch
The height is the distance between the baseline (horizontal line) and the top of the stitch.
This height determines:
- How bold the stitch looks
- How much space the stitch covers
Step 4: Insert Needle at Your Desired Stitch Length
Move your needle right (or left, depending on direction), and insert it down at the point where you want the next vertical leg to sit.
Step 5: Keep the Working Thread Under the Needle
This is the key to forming the loop.
Before you pull the needle up through the baseline, make sure your working thread sits under the needle. This creates the neat horizontal “rail” that connects all the vertical stitches.
Step 6: Pull to Form the First Stitch
Gently pull the needle through. This creates:
- One vertical bar
- One horizontal loop
- Your blanket stitch has officially begun!
Step 7: Repeat the Motion
- Insert needle at the top
- Bring it out on the baseline
- Keep thread under the needle
Each stitch should look identical in:
- Height
- Width
- Tension
This creates the famous comb-like blanket stitch pattern.
Step 8: Finish the Stitch
At the end of your row:
- Make a small diagonal or vertical anchor stitch catching the last loop
- This secures the line and prevents unraveling
Your blanket stitch line is complete!
Why Use Blanket Stitch in Surface Embroidery?
Clean and Decorative Outlines
Blanket stitch outlines shapes beautifully, giving motifs a polished finish.
Great for Applique
It securely attaches fabric patches while adding visual charm.
Strengthens Fabric Edges
The loops prevent fraying, making it ideal for raw edges.
Easy, Repetitive, and Beginner-Friendly
The rhythm of the stitch makes it relaxing and quick to master.
Adds Texture
The vertical teeth of the stitch make it stand out compared to simple backstitch or running stitch.
Works on All Fabrics
From felt to cotton to denim blanket stitch adapts well.
How to Use Blanket Stitch in Surface Embroidery Projects
Blanket stitch is more than an edge stitch you can use it creatively all over your surface designs.
Outlining Shapes
Use it to outline:
- Hearts
- Leaves
- Floral petals
- Letters
- Stars
- Geometric shapes
The bold outline adds structure to the design.
Decorative Borders
Create a frame around:
- Quilts
- Tablecloths
- Towels
- Hoops
- Clothing embroidery
It makes any project look professionally finished.
Attaching Applique
Blanket stitch securely attaches:
- Felt patches
- Fabric motifs
- Denim patches
- Visible mending covers
The decorative edges enhance the applique.
Visible Mending
Blanket stitch is popular in:
- Mending jeans
- Reinforcing pockets
- Hiding stains with patches
- Repairing holes
It strengthens weak areas while adding aesthetic detail.
Fill Stitches
When worked very close together, blanket stitch can even fill shapes.
Embellishing Edges
Use it on:
- Sleeves
- Necklines
- Baby blankets
- Scarves
- Felt crafts
The stitch prevents fraying and adds charm.
Conclusion
Blanket stitch is truly one of the most versatile and beloved stitches in surface embroidery. Whether you’re outlining shapes, decorating borders, attaching applique, or mending clothes, this stitch gives your project structure, beauty, and charm. With just a little practice, you’ll be able to stitch even lines, smooth curves, and stunning borders that elevate your embroidery work instantly.
FAQs
What is blanket stitch used for?
It’s used for outlining, applique, borders, and decorative embroidery.
Is blanket stitch good for beginners?
Yes, it’s simple, repetitive, and easy to learn.
Can I use blanket stitch on curves?
Yes! just use shorter stitches around bends.
What thread works best for blanket stitch?
Embroidery floss (2–6 strands) depending on how bold you want it.
Why does my blanket stitch look uneven?
Uneven spacing or inconsistent tension causes this try marking guides.
Is blanket stitch the same as buttonhole stitch?
They are similar, but buttonhole stitch is tighter and often used for applique.
