Cassie Cartmell – Faodail Creation
This is the link to the full you tube tutorial : https://youtu.be/iIR3j_iieqk
Table of Contents
Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Learning the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is one of the easiest ways to create beautiful applique projects with a clean and decorative finish. If you are new to applique or sewing decorative stitches, this tutorial will help you confidently sew a neat blanket stitch using your sewing machine.
The Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is perfect for quilting, applique, cushion covers, wall hangings, table runners, and many other sewing projects. It creates a decorative edge around fabric shapes while also securing the applique in place.
One important thing to know about the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is that every sewing machine may stitch slightly differently. Some machines take one forward stitch before moving sideways, while others may stitch forward and backward multiple times. That is why it is always important to test your stitch on scrap fabric before sewing your final applique shape.
In this tutorial, I will walk you through how to sew the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine, what settings to use, what sewing foot works best, and how to sew smooth curves and sharp points successfully.
Why Use Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine?
The Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is popular because it combines both function and decoration. It secures applique pieces while adding texture and visual interest to your sewing project.
Here are a few reasons why sewists love this stitch:
- Decorative finish
- Strong applique edges
- Beginner-friendly technique
- Works on many sewing projects
- Great for quilting and crafting
- Faster than hand stitching
- Easy to customize with thread colors
The stitch itself creates little straight stitches along the edge of the applique while tiny horizontal stitches bite into the applique shape. This creates the classic blanket stitch appearance that many quilters and applique artists love.
If you enjoy applique projects, learning the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is a skill that you will use over and over again.
Another reason many sewists enjoy the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is because it gives projects a professional handmade appearance without requiring advanced sewing skills. The stitch can be used on cotton, felt, linen, denim, and many other fabrics, making it extremely versatile for different types of sewing and quilting projects.
You can also adjust the stitch width and stitch length to create different decorative looks depending on your design. Many quilters use the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine to outline applique blocks, personalize gifts, and add decorative details to home decor projects. Once you become comfortable with the technique, it quickly becomes one of the most useful decorative stitches on your sewing machine.
Supplies Needed for Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Fabric and Applique Shape
For this tutorial, I prepared a heart applique shape using fusible web. I personally enjoy using Steam-A-Seam because it helps keep the applique securely in place while sewing.
You can use many shapes for applique including:
- Hearts
- Flowers
- Stars
- Animals
- Letters
- Holiday shapes
When practicing the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine, start with simple shapes before moving on to more detailed designs.
Sewing Machine
I used the Baby Lock Altair 2 sewing and embroidery machine for this tutorial. However, you can use almost any sewing machine that includes a blanket stitch setting.
Different machines may label the stitch differently, so check your sewing machine manual if you are unsure where to find the blanket stitch.
Open Toe Foot
One of the best tools for the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is an open toe sewing foot.
This foot makes it much easier to see where your needle lands. Visibility is extremely important when sewing around curves and corners.
The open front allows you to line the edge of the foot up with the edge of your applique shape for more accurate stitching.
Thread Choice
For decorative stitching, embroidery thread works beautifully.
I used:
- Embroidery thread on the top
- Embroidery thread in the bobbin
Using decorative thread helps the blanket stitch stand out and gives your applique a professional appearance.
If you are brand new to applique, start with thread colors that blend into your fabric. This makes small mistakes less noticeable while you practice.
Sewing Needle
I always use a 90/14 Microtex sewing needle for applique work.
A sharp needle helps create cleaner stitches, especially when sewing decorative stitches through fusible applique layers.
How to Set Up Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Selecting the Blanket Stitch
On my machine, I selected the sewing menu and chose the decorative stitch section. Inside that section were several versions of the blanket stitch.
Many sewing machines include:
- Basic blanket stitch
- Narrow blanket stitch
- Wide blanket stitch
- Decorative variations
For beginners, start with the basic stitch option.
The most important thing when learning the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is understanding how your machine forms the stitch.
Always practice first on scrap fabric.
Adjusting Needle Position
Another important setup step is shifting the needle position.
I move the needle all the way to the right on my sewing machine. This helps align the stitch properly with the applique edge while preventing the needle from hitting the foot.
After adjusting the needle, slowly lower it manually using the hand wheel to confirm that the needle clears the foot safely.
This simple adjustment makes sewing the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine much easier and more accurate.
Starting Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Begin on a Straight Edge
When sewing applique, always begin in the easiest area first.
Straight edges are ideal because they allow you to get comfortable with the stitch rhythm before sewing curves.
Lower the presser foot and slowly turn the hand wheel to check where the needle lands.
You want:
- The straight stitch portion to land just outside the applique
- The sideways stitch to catch the edge of the applique
Taking time to position the stitch correctly at the beginning makes the entire project look cleaner.
Sew Slowly
One of the biggest secrets to successful Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine projects is sewing slowly.
Decorative stitches require more precision than regular straight stitching.
Slow sewing allows you to:
- Control curves
- Stop accurately
- Adjust fabric direction
- Maintain even stitch placement
There is absolutely no rush when sewing applique.
The slower you go, the cleaner your stitches will look.
How to Sew Curves with Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Stop with Needle Down
Whenever you reach a curve, stop sewing with the needle in the down position.
This anchors the fabric so it does not shift while turning.
For the cleanest curves:
- Stop
- Lift the presser foot
- Slightly rotate the fabric
- Lower the foot
- Continue sewing slowly
Repeat these small adjustments all the way around the curve.
This technique is one of the most important skills when learning the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine.
Turn Gradually
Do not try to force the fabric around the curve all at once.
Instead, make tiny adjustments every few stitches.
Small turns create:
- Smoother curves
- Cleaner stitch spacing
- Better stitch alignment
Patience is key when sewing applique curves.
Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine for Beginners
Use Contrasting Fabrics for Practice
For this demonstration, I purposely used highly contrasting colors.
The bright yellow applique, contrasting background, and bold thread make it easier to see exactly where the stitches land.
However, beginners may actually find it easier to practice with:
- White thread
- Light fabrics
- Small prints
Blended colors help hide small imperfections while learning.
As your confidence improves, you can experiment with bold decorative thread choices.
Practice Before Your Final Project
Every machine forms the stitch slightly differently.
Some blanket stitches:
- Take two forward stitches
- Take one forward stitch
- Move backward slightly
- Create wider side stitches
Testing your stitch first helps you understand:
- Stitch width
- Stitch spacing
- Needle placement
- Fabric movement
Practicing first is one of the best ways to improve your Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine results.
Using the Pivot Feature
One feature I absolutely love on the Baby Lock Altair 2 is the automatic pivot feature.
When activated:
- The needle stays down
- The presser foot lifts automatically
This makes applique much easier because you can rotate the fabric without constantly lifting the foot manually.
The pivot feature allows you to fully focus on controlling the applique shape and keeping your stitches aligned.
If your sewing machine includes a pivot feature, it can greatly improve your experience sewing the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine.
Finishing Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Overlap the Beginning Stitches
When you reach the starting point again, continue sewing slightly over the first stitches.
This creates a seamless finish and avoids visible gaps.
Take a couple of stitches over the beginning area carefully.
Use Reinforcement Stitches
After overlapping the stitches, use your sewing machine’s reinforcement or locking stitch feature.
This secures the thread without creating bulky backstitching.
A reinforcement stitch helps:
- Prevent unraveling
- Secure decorative stitching
- Keep the finish neat
This final step completes your Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine beautifully.
Common Mistakes with Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Sewing Too Fast
The number one mistake beginners make is sewing too quickly.
Decorative stitching requires control.
Slow down and focus on stitch placement.
Not Testing the Stitch First
Every sewing machine behaves differently.
Always test:
- Needle position
- Stitch width
- Stitch length
- Thread tension
before sewing your applique project.
Turning Incorrectly on Curves
Always turn with the needle positioned correctly.
Stopping with the needle on the outside edge usually creates smoother curves.
Using the Wrong Foot
An open toe foot gives you better visibility and control.
Trying to sew applique with a standard foot can make it harder to see the stitch placement.
Best Projects for Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Once you learn this technique, there are endless creative possibilities.
Popular projects include:
Quilts
The Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine works beautifully for applique quilt blocks and decorative quilt borders.
Cushion Covers
Decorative applique cushions look stunning with blanket stitch edging.
Wall Hangings
Holiday and seasonal wall hangings are perfect for applique work.
Tote Bags
Personalized tote bags look amazing with decorative stitched applique letters or shapes.
Baby Blankets
Soft applique designs stitched with blanket stitch create adorable handmade baby gifts.
Tips for Better Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Use Stabilizer if Needed
Some fabrics shift while stitching decorative stitches.
A lightweight stabilizer can help prevent puckering.
Keep Fabric Flat
Avoid pulling the fabric while sewing.
Let the feed dogs move the fabric naturally.
Watch the Applique Edge
Focus your eyes on the edge of the applique rather than the needle itself.
This helps maintain even spacing.
Clean Your Machine Regularly
Decorative stitching creates lint buildup quickly.
Cleaning your sewing machine helps maintain consistent stitch quality.
Final Thoughts on Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine
Learning the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine is a wonderful skill for quilting, sewing, and applique projects. It adds both beauty and durability to your handmade creations.
With practice, sewing curves, corners, and decorative applique becomes much easier. Start slowly, test your stitch settings, and take your time around curves.
The more you practice the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine, the more confident you will become with applique techniques and decorative sewing.
This stitch is beginner-friendly, versatile, and incredibly satisfying to sew. Whether you are creating quilts, wall hangings, cushion covers, or tote bags, the blanket stitch adds a beautiful handcrafted touch to every project.
If you enjoyed learning about the Blanket Stitch on the Sewing Machine, make sure to explore more quilting, sewing, and applique tutorials. There are so many creative sewing projects waiting for you to try.
Happy sewing!
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I recommend you read this next : How to Stitch Applique on a Sewing Machine : Easy & Powerful Beginner Guide https://faodailcreation.ca/2026/04/29/how-to-stitch-applique-on-a-sewing-machine/
