BLANKET STITCH (11 variations)

The Blanket stitch can be used actually to make a fabric. That was news to me, even though I have been using this very versatile stitch in several ways. In needlepoint lace making, this stitch makes the fabric itself. Most beautiful designs of applique and cut work use a blanket stitch to perfection.

Other than for edging blankets (hence the name) this stitch can be used in a number of ways to decorate and embellish your clothes.

Different types of blanket stitches

Simple Blanket stitch

Uneven blanket stitch

Long and short blanket stitches are used. Alternate stitches are smaller, half of the bigger ones. 

Closely packed blanket stitch

This stitch is also called Buttonhole stitch and is used to make buttonholes. The blanket stitches are done very close to each other.

Know more about the buttonhole stitch here

Double blanket stitch

In this stitch, another parallel row of blanket stitch is worked, such that the teeth of one row of stitches come between the other row. This looks more attractive when done with a different colored thread. 

Boxed blanket stitch

This is a simple blanket stitch with a running stitch added to make boxes. The running stitch is worked after the blanket stitch is done. Connect consecutive stitches of the blanket stitch and then leave one and continue.  

Closed blanket stitch

This is blanket stitches worked diagonally. Consecutive stitches are taken so that they meet to form a triangle. 

Whipped blanket stitch

Whipped stitches done with a contrasting/complimentary thread over the bottom edge of the blanket stitch is a very effective way of embellishing the basic stitch.

Crossed Blanket Stitch

In this stitch, an ordinary blanket stitch is alternated with a diagonal(crossed) blanket stitch resulting in a line of crossed stitches. Always make sure that the thread is under the needle. 

Long and short blanket stitch

This is blanket stitches done in a graded manner, making it look like a scallop. You will have to mark the portion to do the stitches and divide it into equal portions.

Each portion should have an equal number of blanket stitches. Do the blanket stitches so that the tallest blanket stitch will come in the middle of these portions. It is a good idea to draw parallel lines to do these stitches as well.

Check out the post on other 5 ways to make a scalloped edge.

Decorative blanket stitch

Closely packed blanket stitches are done in groups of 2 or more, alternatively with ordinary blanket stitches.  

Pinwheels

Blanket stitches are worked around a point to make these beautiful pinwheels. They look so much like flowers.

Related posts : Back stitch; Stem stitch; Outline stitch; Chain stitch