Tools and Materials Needed
Blanket stitch can be worked by hand or by sewing machine. For the purpose of this article, blanket stitch will be explained as if working it on a sewing machine. To get started, you will need some basic tools and materials. These include thread, fabric, a sharp needle, a regular presser foot and a zipper foot.
It also helps to have a marking pen or pencil, a seam ripper, and some scissors on hand. If you are working on a quilt project, you will need enough quilt batting to cover the quilt top. Additionally, quilting clips or pins can be helpful to hold the project in place when you are stitching.
Preparing the Fabric
Before you can begin stitching, the fabric needs to be prepared properly. First, it is important to ensure the fabric is cut precisely to the correct measurement. As most quilters know, even the slightest discrepancy in size can throw off the entire quilt top.
If you are working with a quilt, you may want to first make a template. This will help to mark the exact shape and size of the quilt. You can make the template by tracing the fabric onto a piece of tracing paper or poster board. Once the fabric is prepared, it’s time to start stitching.
Setting Up the Sewing Machine
Before starting to stitch, it is important to set up the sewing machine correctly. Start by setting the stitch to the blanket stitch setting. The exact setting will depend on the machine. Some machines have a separate blanket stitch setting, while others will require you to make adjustments to the stitch length, width and other settings to create a similar effect.
Also, make sure the needle is the correct size for the project and thread. Generally, the heavier the project, the larger the needle should be. Once the machine is set up correctly, you can begin stitching.
Making the Stitch
When stitching the blanket stitch, it is important to use a presser foot and the correct needle. The presser foot will move the fabric smoothly under the needle as you sew. The needle should protrude enough to easily stitch through the fabric and batting.
To start the stitch, first use the marking pen or pencil to mark the quilt’s shape. Once the shape is marked, you can begin stitching. Start on the right side of the quilt and stitch around the edge of the quilt. The basic stitch is a simple in and out motion as you sew. After each stitch, make sure to back stitch 1-2 times to secure the thread.
Variations of Blanket Stitch
Once the main body of the quilt has been quilted, you can add some decorative touches by using various variations of the blanket stitch. Common variations include adding beads, appliqué, and embroidery to the quilt. Using a variety of colors and textures can add visual interest to the quilt.
In addition, you may want to try a patchwork pattern or a combination of different stitches to give the quilt an original look. The sky is the limit when it comes to quilting. Experiment until you find something that pleases you.
Care and Maintenance
Once the blanket stitch is complete, it is important to take good care of the quilt. First, give it a good pressing with a hot, steamy iron to flatten and smooth out any wrinkles. Next, you may want to have it professionally quilted or, if you like, you can quilt it yourself.
When cleaning the quilt, use a gentle detergent and spot clean any stains. Once clean, allow the quilt to air dry before pressing. Finally, store the quilt properly to prevent wrinkles and fading.
Technical Challenges of Blanket Stitch
When performing a blanket stitch, one of the biggest challenges is ensuring that the tension of the thread and fabric is equal. If the thread is too tight, it can cause the fabric to bunch up and if the thread is too loose, the fabric may not stay in place.
Additionally, securing the edges of the quilt can be challenging to do with a sewing machine. Many quilters prefer to secure the edges with a binding tape instead. Such a tape is a great way to keep the quilt edges firmly in place.
Advantages of Blanket Stitch
One of the key advantages of blanket stitch is the fact that it adds great strength and durability to a project. Blanket stitch is commonly used to secure the edges of a quilt, as well as to add a decorative touch. Additionally, it also allows for more creative freedom, as there are many variations and combinations you can use when creating a project.
In comparison to many other types of stitching, the blanket stitch is fairly easy to learn and master. It can be done with a regular presser foot and a zipper foot. This type of stitch is perfect for adding a stylish, professional finish to your quilt or other sewing project.
Alternatives to Blanket Stitch
If you’re looking for an alternative to blanket stitch, hand quilting is a popular option. Many quilters prefer it because of the unique look and feel it provides. This type of quilting requires patience, but the results can be stunning.
In addition, many quilters enjoy machine quilting. It is much faster than hand quilting and, depending on the design, can be just as beautiful. You can use a regular presser foot or a free-motion quilting foot for machine quilting.
Embroidery as an Alternative
Another great way to add a decorative touch to a quilt is by using embroidery. Embroidery is a needle art that is perfect for adding small bursts of color, sparkle and texture to any project. Using embroidery threads, you can create detailed patterns, letters, and images on the fabric.
Due to the detailed nature of embroidery, it is best done by hand. However, if you are looking for a more modern look, you can opt for a computerized embroidery machine. Such a machine makes it easy to customize designs with colorful threads and finishes.
Summary
Blanket stitch is a versatile, easy to learn quilting technique that adds strength and durability to a project. It is a great way to give a professional finish to a quilt or other sewing project. To make sure stitching goes smoothly, it is important to set up the sewing machine correctly and use the right tools and materials.
In addition, quilters can also try some alternatives such as hand quilting, machine quilting and embroidery. These techniques offer different looks and textures, and can be great for more creative projects. Whatever your preference, blanket stitch is an excellent way to give your sewing projects a professional finish.
