Performing a blanket stitch on the edge of fabric with a sewing machine is a great way to add a decorative finish or secure applique, creating a series of loops along the edge with a horizontal bar anchoring them.
Here's how you can achieve a neat blanket stitch along an edge using your sewing machine:
Preparing Your Sewing Machine and Fabric
Before you start stitching, make sure your machine is set up correctly for the blanket stitch.
- Select the Stitch: Find the blanket stitch setting on your machine. It often looks like a series of L-shapes or inverted L-shapes along a line.
- Choose the Right Foot: A clear or open-toe applique foot is ideal. This foot allows you to see the fabric edge and the needle's position clearly, making it easier to guide your stitching.
- Adjust Stitch Settings:
- Stitch Width: Controls how far the horizontal bar of the stitch extends from the edge. Experiment on scrap fabric to find a pleasing width (e.g., 2.5 - 4 mm).
- Stitch Length: Controls the density of the stitches (how close together they are). A shorter length creates denser stitches, while a longer length spaces them further apart (e.g., 2 - 3 mm).
- Thread Selection: Use good quality thread suitable for your fabric. Contrasting thread can make the stitch stand out, while matching thread provides a subtler finish.
- Prepare the Fabric: If stitching on a raw edge that frays easily, you might consider stabilizing it or using a fray check product before stitching. If you are stitching around an applique shape, ensure it is secured to the base fabric (e.g., with fusible web or temporary adhesive).
Stitching the Blanket Stitch on the Edge
Follow these steps to sew the blanket stitch along the edge of your fabric or applique.
- Position the Fabric: Place your fabric under the presser foot so that the edge you want to finish aligns with a guide on your presser foot (like the inner edge of the toe) or a marking on the needle plate.
- Start Stitching: Begin sewing slowly. The machine will execute the blanket stitch sequence: several straight stitches along the edge, followed by one stitch that swings out horizontally off the edge.
- Guide the Edge: As you sew, keep your fabric edge consistently aligned with your chosen guide. This is crucial for creating an even line of stitching.
- Handling Curves and Pivots:
- When you reach a curve or corner (a "pivot"), slow down your sewing speed considerably.
- As mentioned in the reference, curves are always slower than straight lines. This slower speed helps you control the fabric placement precisely.
- The goal when sewing on curves, especially around applique, is to ensure the "bar of the... blanket stitch... sit[s] as neatly. And as squarely off the edge as possible." You achieve this by carefully guiding the fabric and potentially stopping with the needle down (in the fabric) to reposition on tight curves or corners. Pivot the fabric slightly as needed between stitches to keep the edge aligned for the horizontal bar.
- Finishing: When you complete the circuit or reach the end of the edge, overlap your starting stitches by a few stitches to secure them, then backstitch briefly or use your machine's tie-off function if available. Trim your threads.
Tips for Success
- Practice First: Always test your stitch settings and technique on a scrap piece of the same fabric before working on your final project.
- Use Stabilizer: For stretchy or lightweight fabrics, using a tear-away or wash-away stabilizer underneath can help prevent stretching and puckering, resulting in a smoother stitch.
- Needle Choice: Use a sharp needle appropriate for your fabric type.
- Consistent Speed: On straight sections, maintaining a consistent, moderate speed helps produce even stitches.
- Pressing: Once finished, gently press your work (from the back if possible) to help the stitches lie flat.
By carefully setting up your machine, selecting the right foot, and practicing control, especially around curves and corners as highlighted in the reference, you can achieve a professional-looking blanket stitch finish on any edge.
