Blanket Stitching by Machine

Learning how to blanket stitch by machine is a skill you'll want to add to your repertoire! This technique is perfect for finishing edges or securing appliqués. Let's dive into the world of machine blanket stitching!

KNOW THIS INFO...

Knowing the stitch sequence is critical to the success of the corner or point.

'JUMP' is the stitch that moves forward and goes around the outline of the shape, hugging the raw edge.

'BITE' is the stitch that goes INTO the appliqué, & is perpendicular to the outside.

Play with length and width of stitches to know how deep and how far apart you
want those stitches to be.

Practice on a sample piece of fabric beforehand. It will get easier & easier!

STRAIGHT EDGES & "EMBRACE THE PIVOT"
If you want the corner to have a "bite" at a diagonal, then stop with needle in outside position. Pivot just 45 degrees. Take another bite and back. Turn another 45 degrees and continue stitching along the edge.

The 90 degree pivot happens when you take a jump all the way to the outside corner and keep the needle in the down position on the outside of the appliqué. Pivot the applique 90 degrees and continue to take another jump forward. Remember... your "jumps" should always remain on the outside edge, more along
the background and not the applique itself.

CURVES

When stitching curves, make sure you take it nice and slow! Pivot slightly on a frequent basis, always making sure that the needle is in the background fabric at the outside of the curve, before you ever pivot. The stars pictured show when to turn.

If you turn while the needle is still in the applique shape, this will result in "Vs" with your stitch, or what we like to call, "Alligator Bites" in the applique. :)

STAR & HEART POINTS

Stitch to the point. Make sure needle is down. Pivot half-way to take another stitch. Then turn the remaining angle that that you are once again stitching along the edge of the shape.

For hearts, repeat the same exact steps as above for stars. Remember, always do a test-stitch on an appliqué such as a heart beforehand so you can feel confident doing so on the real deal! :) 

Click here to watch Kris do this in real-time! (Start at the 17:23 minute mark)

Click here for our FREE download of these tips that you can print off to refer back to!