Steps to Sew a Blanket Stitch with Sewing Machine
Creating a blanket stitch on a sewing machine is a great way to add decoration and texture to a project. A blanket stitch is a needlework that is used to secure the edges of a fleece, flannel, or other fabric and is often used for quilts and blankets. The blanket stitch lends a really nice look to many fabric projects and is relatively easy to do using a basic sewing machine. With a few simple instructions, anyone can create a blanket stitch with a sewing machine and get beautiful results.
To begin, gather all the supplies needed to sew a blanket stitch. The only things needed are a piece of fabric, sewing machine thread, sewing machine topstitch needle, and a sewing machine zipper foot. After the supplies are gathered, cut the fabric into the desired size and shape. If a border or edge is desired then it can be added to the edge of the fabric.
The next step is to adjust the sewing machine. Depending on the type of medium being used, the thread and needle should be selected. Generally, a high-quality polyester or poly blend is the best option. A topstitch or jeans needle is also recommended. After the thread and needle are selected, the stitch length and width should also be adjusted. The best option is to use a long, straight stitch stitch and an adjustable width.
Once the machine is adjusted to the desired settings, the blanket stitch can be sewn. To sew the stitch begin by attaching the zipper foot to the sewing machine. Place the fabric underneath the presser foot and align it so the edge of the fabric is 1/4 of an inch below the needle. Begin sewing the blanket stitch and make sure to keep the edge of the fabric aligned with the needle. After the needle reaches the edge of the fabric, lift the presser foot and pivot the fabric and reattach the presser foot, repeating the stitching process all the way around the edge of the fabric. As you sew, guide the fabric to keep it even with the edge of the zipper foot.
When stitching is completed, tie off the ends with a knot and cut any excess threads. Once the blanket stitch is completed, the fabric can be used in whatever project is desired. The blanket stitch is a great way to add detail and texture to any project, whether it’s a quilt, blanket, or other type of fabric. With the instructions above, anyone can create a beautiful blanket stitch using a sewing machine.
Choose the Right Pattern
When creating a blanket stitch with a sewing machine, the pattern used is important. For example, a red blanket stitch will stand out more than a white one. Additionally, the pattern of the stitch should also be considered. Sewing a straight stitch or a satin stitch may yield completely different results than a blanket stitch. Consider the project the fabric will be used for and choose a pattern that best suits the needs of the project.
Additionally, it is important to consider the type of thread being used to create the stitch. If a quilt is being made then a high quality, high thread count thread should be used. This will help ensure the stitch is durable and won’t come undone easily. If the fabric is a light material, then a more delicate thread with a low thread count should be chosen. Once the thread is chosen, it should be tested on a scrap piece of fabric first to make sure the the stitch turns out desirable.
Creating a pattern for a blanket stitch is an excellent way to add more detail and texture to a project. By considering the pattern of the stitch, the type of thread, and the fabric being used, a high-quality stitch can be achieved with a sewing machine.
Great Uses of Blanket Stitch
Whether hand sewn or done with a sewing machine, a blanket stitch can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used to create a hem on a pillow, a quilt, or even curtains. The stitch can also be used to decorate a handbag or jacket. Additionally, the blanket stitch can be used to repair a tear in a piece of clothing or fabric. By using the blanket stitch, clothing and fabric can be repaired without having to buy expensive replacements.
One great way to use the blanket stitch is to create a binding. This is done by sewing a line of stitches along the edge of a piece of fabric. The binding will give the fabric a finished look and also prevent it from fraying. The blanket stitch can also be used as an edging stitch. This involves sewing a line of stitches along the edge of a piece of fabric and then looping the stitches around each other. This creates a decorative edge that can be used on blankets or clothing.
No matter how it is used, the blanket stitch is a great way to add detail and texture to any project. Whether it is used to create a hem, bind a fabric, or create an edging, the blanket stitch is a versatile and decorative stitch that can be used in a variety of ways.
Advantages of Using Sewing Machine
Using a sewing machine to create the blanket stitch comes with some advantages. For starters, the stitch will be even, consistent and uniform. By using a sewing machine, the stitches can be precisely adjusted to the desired width and length. This will help create a more consistent, professional look to whatever project is being worked on. Additionally, sewing with a sewing machine is a lot faster than hand sewing. This is especially true when making a large project, such as a quilt or blanket.
Comparing hand sewing to a sewing machine is like comparing a stick shift to an automatic. Both can be used to achieve the same result but one will require more skill, patience, and time. Sewing machines are an invaluable tool when it comes to creating detailed, professional looking projects. The blanket stitch is proof of this, as it can be created quickly and easily with a sewing machine.
By using a sewing machine, the possibilities for creating with fabric are endless. But, as with any craft, practice makes perfect. With a few attempts, creating a blanket stitch with a machine will become second nature. With a little time and practice, beautiful projects can be made quickly and easily.
Notable Projects with Blanket Stitch
Over the years, blanket stitching has been used to create some wonderful and unique projects. For starters, ornamental pieces, such as bedspreads, curtains, and chair covers can be created with a blanket stitch. It can also be used on clothing, such as aprons, skirts, and jackets. Additionally, it can be used to create decorative blankets, quilts, and baby blankets.
Two of the most famous projects that have been created with the blanket stitch are the Bedlam blankets and the Tasmanian quilt. The Bedlam blankets, originating in the British Isles, were hand sewn with the blanket stitch and often used for medicinal purposes. From the 16th to the 20th centuries, these blankets served as a form of protection from any ailments, evil spirits, or bad luck.
As for the Tasmanian quilt, the blanket stitch was used to create a unique and beautiful piece of quilting. This quilt is made up of hundreds of fabric scraps and is hand sewn with the blanket stitch. The quilt has been around since the 19th century and is still being passed down in many families in Tasmania today.
To this day, the quilts and blankets made with the blanket stitch continue to serve as works of art. Whether they are made with a sewing machine or by hand, they are symbols of beauty and history.
Conclusion
Whether hand sewn or made with a sewing machine, the blanket stitch is an incredibly versatile and decorative stitch. It can be used for clothing, quilts, blankets, and many other projects. By using a few simple instructions, anyone can create a beautiful blanket stitch with a sewing machine. Additionally, the advantages of using a sewing machine to create the blanket stitch cannot be ignored. It is faster, more consistent and produces professional results every time.
As time has shown, the blanket stitch has been used to create some wonderful and unique projects. From Bedlam blankets to Tasmanian quilts, the blanket stitch has been around for centuries and shows no signs of stopping. With a few simple instructions, anyone can create a beautiful blanket stitch with a sewing machine.
