It is possible to use blanket stitch to work the edges of table-covers, mantel valances, blankets, etc.The blanket stitch is similar to the method used for the buttonhole stitch but there is more space between the stitches.This is a good project to do with children.
Step 1: When sewing blanket stitch, keep in mind the need for regular stitching.
The blanket stitch is all about decoration.The same space between each one will make your finished product look nice and even.If you want, you can change the vertical stitches for a different look.You could have one stitch closer to the edge and the next farther away, then closer again and so on.
Step 2: You can choose your thread.
It is better to choose a slightly thicker thread because the blanket stitch is decorative.It will stand out against the fabric.It should be the color you prefer.
Step 3: Tie a knot at the end of the long thread.
To thread it, push the thread through the head of the needle.Leave one end longer and the other shorter.It might be better to do a double thread and tie both ends together.They don't get frustrated if the thread comes out of the needle.
Step 4: You can choose your stitching direction.
This can either be left to right or right to left.Many prefer the left to right direction.
Step 5: The needle should be pushed through the cloth from the back to the front.
If you have tied both ends of the thread together, you don't need to use your left thumb.The back side of your knot won't be seen easily if you start back to front.The knot should be on the back of the fabric if you are sewing one layer.The knot between the two fabrics should not be seen if you are sewing two layers.The stitches will look neater once you have finished sewing the knot.The first stitch should come out along the bottom edge of the fabric on top if you are sewing from the edge.
Step 6: Back through the same spot as the first stitch, bring the thread around the edge of the fabric.
Two jumps in the same spot should be your first and last stitches.The first and last stitches are horizontal rather than diagonal.
Step 7: You just made a loop and you need to push your needle through it.
If you are sewing left to right, you should push your needle through the edge of the fabric.If you are sewing right to left, the opposite is true.This is not a true stitch.
Step 8: Place the needle at the upper end of the line if you move a short distance to the right or left.
On the lower line, the thread will come out.
Step 9: The loop that has now appeared has a needle in it.
Your thread should come out over the top of the loop.You just completed your first blanket stitch.Proceed with the next stitch by moving to the right and putting the needle at the upper end of the line once more.
Step 10: When you reach the corner, poke your needle across from the other side.
You can either make a hole on the diagonal or use the same hole as the previous one.
Step 11: As in the normal blanket stitch, pull your thread through the loop.
When stitching along the edge, draw the needle through the loop after poking it down.You have completed your corner stitch.
Step 12: The thread should be pushed vertically on the next edge.
The following stitch can either be in the same hole as the corner stitch and the last one on the preceding edge, or it can be a new hole.It's up to you as to which option you choose.
Step 13: If you start a new stitch but don't finish it, shoot your needle down.
Simply let the thread come out the back of the fabric if you are sewing a single layer along the edge.Push the needle through the upper layer if you are sewing two layers along the edge.
Step 14: Leave a loop for the next thread.
The next stitch will not be able to catch the loop if this is loose and there is extra thread.You can pull the thread to the side to see how loose it is.
Step 15: Tie a knot in the fabric.
You want to tie this knot at the edge of the fabric so that the thread doesn't get loose.
Step 16: Place your needle in your new thread.
You can use the same color thread or choose a different one.Either tie a knot in the end of the thread or tie both threads together.
Step 17: Go through your next thread first.
The stitches will begin with your thread.If you are sewing one layer along the edge, you should tie the new thread onto the knot at the end of the old thread.The new thread should come out through the back of the fabric if you are sewing two layers along the edge.If you are sewing from the edge, your new thread should start from back to front along the bottom edge of the fabric.
Step 18: Put your needle under the loose loop from the previous thread.
It will appear as though the stitching has not been interrupted if you slide your needle under the loose loop.As you pull the thread through the loop with your new thread, you are completing the second part of the basic blanket stitch.
Step 19: Continue stitching as normal if you pull your thread tight.
Pull the thread tight and push the needle down along the upper line to pull it through the loop.
Step 20: When you come to the end of the fabric, repeat this stitch-through-loop.
Step 21: If you want to connect your last stitch to your first, you have to slide your needle sideways.
This is the last part of your stitches.You won't have a stitch to slide under if you are sewing from the edge.On the right side of your last stitch is where you can poke your needle.The thread should be at the back of the fabric.
Step 22: Attach the needle to the back of the first stitch you made.
This will result in two threads along the same line.If you are sewing two layers along the edge, do not poke your needle through the first stitch.If you loop your thread underneath your first stitch, you can make a knot.Pull it tight.
Step 23: The extra thread needs to be cut off.
Make your stitches look tidy by cutting off any remaining thread.If you are sewing two layers along the edge, you can push your needle between the layers and out through the front.Remove the excess thread from the top layer of the fabric.The thread should be pulled to hide the knot.
Step 24: If you want, add variety.
You can experiment with new styles now that you have mastered the blanket stitch.The blanket stitch can be varied in many ways, such as spacing the stitches to right and left, or working a second row around the edge of the cloth with a different shade of wool.