The blanket stitch is a versatile and decorative stitch primarily used to finish and reinforce the edge of thick materials, such as blankets.
It is a stitch used to reinforce the edge of thick materials. This functional aspect makes the edges more durable and prevents fraying. Beyond just reinforcement, it is also a decorative stitch used to finish an unhemmed blanket. The stitch creates a neat and often visually appealing border along the raw edge. A notable characteristic is that the stitch can be seen on both sides of the blanket, offering a consistent look. Depending on the specific application or context, the blanket stitch may also be referred to as a cable stitch or a crochet stitch.
Key Characteristics
Based on its definition and use, the key features of the blanket stitch include:
- Edge Reinforcement: Strengthens the edges of fabric, particularly thicker materials.
- Decorative Finish: Provides an attractive border for unhemmed edges.
- Visibility: The stitch pattern is visible and consistent on both sides of the material.
- Alternative Names: May be known as cable stitch or crochet stitch under certain circumstances.
Common Applications
The practical uses of the blanket stitch are diverse, extending beyond its namesake:
- Finishing the raw edges of blankets to prevent unraveling and add a decorative touch.
- Edging felt, fleece, or other thick fabrics in crafting projects.
- Used in appliqué to secure shapes onto a background fabric while also adding a finished edge.
- Creating decorative borders on garments or home décor items.
This simple yet effective stitch provides both durability and aesthetic appeal to the edges of textiles.