If anyone’s an expert at blanket stitch, it’s Kimara of Wee Folk Art. We’ve seen her perfectly spaced stitches on the models for the many felt-applique and embroidery block patterns she’s shared with us. I’m thrilled that she’s sharing her secrets to successful blanket stitching. Enjoy her posts:
Before we get our needles and thread out, let’s talk about the history of a blanket stitch.
Blanket Stitch originated as a method of securing the edges of unsewn blankets. The stitch is simple to make and has a decorative appearance. This stitch was experimented with in hand embroidery over time, giving rise to several varieties and styles of this stitch. A strong stitch is used to finish and strengthen the edges of blankets, etc., comparable to a buttonhole stitch. A similar but more ornamental stitch. The buttonhole stitch first appears on Jane Bostocke’s sampler (1598). Blanket stitch is made in the same manner as buttonhole stitch is… The only distinction between them is the spacing of the stitches.
Please show me how to start a new stitch in the middle of a project without leaving a space. In other words how do I make the stitch like I never ended and started another needle full of thread.