Blanket Stitch an Applique
This hand stitch technique gives a folksy, handmade look to a small applique. It takes a bit of time, so you'll probably use it for the occasional embellishment, rather than for an entire, large project. This stitch is worked from the front of the piece. It finishes the edge a bit loosely, so you can leave that effect or fold the edges under, whichever you choose.This may take while to get perfect.
Steps
- Prepare the piece(s) you wish to applique this way. Cut the piece to the size and shape you want. You can leave the edges raw if the fabric doesn't fray too much (or if you want that look), or you can turn them. You can also press the fabric to fusible web and cut both together. Fusible web will make the piece a bit easier to handle and it will make it more likely to lie flat.
- Place the applique where you want it. You will work the stitch from the front of the piece.
- Run the needle down through both layers of fabric. Work this part a short distance from the edge of the applique.
- Run the needle up through the base fabric. Try to get it at the edge of the applique piece or just slightly underneath.
- Catch the thread from the preceding stitch under the tip of the needle.
- Pull the stitch tight and repeat. If you caught the thread from the previous stitch correctly, this stitch should hold a bit of thread along the edge of the applique.
- Finished.
Tips
- Use a thread that is suited to hand stitching, and cut shorter lengths of it at a time. Pulling the length of the thread through the fabric repeatedly tends to wear the thread, which may make poor threads tangle, over time.
- Do your best to keep the stitches at a consistent spacing and width. You may want to try a small sample of this stitch on some scrap fabric to get a feel for what is a comfortable size and spacing.
- Run your fingers up and down the piece of thread to find the direction of the nap. Be sure you thread your needle so you are pulling the thread *with* the nap. This prevents the thread from fraying and breaking.
- Press both fabrics first, and Mount Fabric in an Embroidery Hoop to keep everything flat as you proceed. Pin the applique in place if you need to, but take care not to scrunch the fabrics when you do.
Warnings
- Use appropriate caution when handling scissors and needles.
Things You'll Need
- Needle
- Thread
- Fabrics
- Fusible web (optional)
- Scissors
- Embroidery hoop (recommended)
