Blanket stitch and whip stitch are essential hand sewing techniques, perfect for adding a decorative and functional edge to various projects. Often used as visible seam stitches, they are ideal for plush toys, cozy blankets, stylish appliqués, and neat edging on fabric crafts. Whether you’re joining two pieces of fabric or finishing a single edge, mastering these stitches opens up a world of sewing possibilities.
Let’s explore How To Sew these two fundamental stitches, making your hand sewing projects look professionally finished.
Understanding Blanket Stitch
Blanket stitch, also known as a “buttonhole stitch,” creates a decorative, sturdy edge. It’s characterized by vertical bars along the fabric edge and a horizontal stitch at the top, resembling a blanket’s edge – hence the name.
To begin, thread your needle. For clarity, let’s use embroidery floss and an embroidery needle. Remember to thread the needle with a single strand of floss for better control. A little trick for easier threading: cut the floss end sharply and moisten it slightly to flatten the fibers.
Now, let’s get stitching!
Step 1: Starting the Blanket Stitch
Bring the needle up from the back of the fabric to the front, near the edge where you want to start your stitch.
Step 2: Creating the First Stitch
Position the needle diagonally from your starting point and insert it back into the fabric. As you pull the needle through, you’ll notice a loop forming.
Step 3: Forming the Vertical Bar
Before pulling the thread taut, insert the needle through this loop. This crucial step transforms the diagonal stitch into a neat 90-degree angle, creating the signature vertical bar of the blanket stitch.
Continue this diagonal stitching and loop technique along the fabric edge, keeping your stitches evenly spaced for a consistent and professional look.
Step 4: Finishing the Blanket Stitch
When you reach the end, bring the needle to the right of your last vertical stitch. Bring it up through the fabric to create a final loop, just as you have been doing. Securely knot the thread by passing the needle through this loop a couple of times. Congratulations, your blanket stitch is complete!
Mastering Whip Stitch
Whip stitch is a simpler stitch, ideal for joining fabric edges together quickly and neatly. It creates a spiral effect around the seam, offering a clean and unobtrusive finish.
Let’s learn how to execute this easy stitch.
Step 1: Preparing Your Fabric
Fold the fabric edges you want to join and pin them in place. For a clearer visual, slightly open the top fold.
Step 2: Starting the Whip Stitch
Insert the needle from the inside (between the folded layers) so it emerges on the front side, right at the edge of the fabric.
Step 3: Creating the Whip Stitch
Bring the needle over the fabric edge, insert it through to the back, and then bring it back to the front, level with your first stitch. This wraps the thread around the fabric edge, creating the “whip.”
Continue this wrapping motion along the fabric edge, keeping your stitches consistent and snug.
Step 4: Finishing the Whip Stitch
To finish, you can use the same knotting technique as with the blanket stitch. Create a loop with your last stitch and pass the needle through it a few times to secure the thread. Your whip stitch seam is now complete!
Tips for Perfect Stitches
- Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t worry if your first attempts aren’t flawless. Practice on scrap fabric to get comfortable with the movements and spacing.
- Consistent Tension: Maintain even tension on your thread throughout your stitching to ensure neat and uniform stitches.
- Visual Resources: For further visual guidance and alternative techniques, explore resources like FutureGirl’s tutorials on whip stitch and blanket stitch. They offer fantastic insights and can answer any further questions you might have.
With a little practice, you’ll be confidently using blanket stitch and whip stitch to enhance all your sewing projects. These stitches are not only functional but also add a charming handmade touch to your creations. Happy sewing!
