Are you ready to take your felt crafts to the next level? Let’s dive into the wonderful world of blanket stitching! This charming technique isn’t just a practical way to join pieces or reinforce edges – it’s also a beautiful decorative element that can transform your projects from simple to simply stunning.
What is Blanket Stitch?
Blanket stitch is a versatile embroidery technique that creates a series of looped stitches along the edge of your fabric. It’s like giving your felt a cozy, handmade hug! This stitch is perfect for:
- Creating a decorative edge
- Joining two pieces of felt together
- Reinforcing the edge of your project to prevent fraying
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before we jump in, let’s gather our supplies:
- Felt pieces (any color you love!)
- Embroidery floss (choose a contrasting or complementary color)
- Embroidery needle (with a large eye to accommodate the floss)
- Scissors
- Optional: Pins to hold your pieces together
Step-by-Step Guide to Blanket Stitch
1. Thread Your Needle
Start by cutting a length of embroidery floss – about 18 inches is a good starting point. Thread your needle and tie a knot at the end of the floss.
2. Begin Your Stitch
- Insert your needle from the back of the felt, about 1/4 inch from the edge.
- Bring the needle up through the felt and over the edge.
- Insert the needle back down into the felt, about 1/4 inch from where it came up, and 1/4 inch in from the edge.
- Here’s the magic part: Before pulling the thread all the way through, make sure your working thread is under the needle. This creates the characteristic loop of the blanket stitch.
- Gently pull the thread taut, creating a neat “L” shape along the edge of your felt.
3. Continue Along the Edge
Repeat this process, keeping your stitches evenly spaced. Aim for about 1/4 inch between each stitch, but feel free to adjust based on your project and personal preference.
4. Turning Corners
When you reach a corner, make two stitches in the same hole to create a neat turn. This little detail makes your work look extra polished!
5. Joining Pieces
If you’re using blanket stitch to join two pieces of felt:
- Align your felt pieces with edges touching.
- Work your stitches through both layers of felt.
- Pull gently to ensure the pieces are snugly joined.
6. Finishing Up
When you’ve reached the end of your stitching:
- Make a small stitch on the back of your work to secure the thread.
- Tie off with a small knot.
- Trim any excess thread.
Tips for Blanket Stitch Success
- Keep it consistent: Try to maintain even spacing and tension in your stitches for a professional look.
- Embrace the imperfections: Remember, handmade charm comes from those little quirks!
- Play with color: Don’t be afraid to use contrasting colors for a bold look, or matching colors for a subtle finish.
- Practice makes perfect: If you’re struggling, grab some scrap felt and practice until you feel comfortable.
Why We Love Blanket Stitch for Felt Crafts
Blanket stitch isn’t just functional – it’s a beautiful way to add character to your projects. The visible stitches create a charming, handcrafted look that’s perfect for felt. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Use it to create adorable stuffed animals, cozy pillows, or even festive holiday decorations.
Ready to Stitch?
Now that you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to let your creativity shine! Start with a simple project like a felt coaster or bookmark to build your confidence. Before you know it, you’ll be blanket stitching like a pro!
Remember, crafting is all about enjoying the process. So put on some good music, get comfy, and have fun with your new blanket stitching skills. Happy crafting!
