How To Use Blanket Stitch On Sewing Machine? Quicker Than Hand Stitch

I used to play around with blanket stitch a lot in hand stitch because there were many versions of it. So when I switched to machine stitches, I kind of started missing blanket stitch.

The stitches seem easy, yet they are strong enough to hold the fabric together. I insisted on sitting there with a missing item. I went to search. And guess what I found? Yes, it is possible to blanket stitch on the sewing machine. And it’s super easy,

Can I Do Blanket Stitch On A Sewing Machine?

So, can a sewing machine do a blanket stitch?

Yes, you can do a blanket stitch on a sewing machine. Many machines have it built in. But sometimes it’s labeled as a blanket stitch, and other times as a buttonhole stitch. Alternatively, you can sometimes find it under decorative stitches.

Here are the blanket stitch options I’ve figured out so far,  about sewing machine blanket stitch,

1. One stitch has “two stitches and then a bite”
2. Another stitch is described as “heavier” and looks like it was done with a thicker thread.
3. Stitch number 20 is mentioned as a favorite, described as “simple”, “straight down and a bite”.
4. Another option has a “little bit more thicker straight stitch”.
5. There is also one with a “little bit more of a fun zigzag kind of a quicker stitch.

The blanket stitch symbol on a sewing machine usually looks like a straight vertical line with a right-angle “L” or small horizontal line branching off it. It’s almost like a sideways└” or a corner bracket. It mimics the hand-sewn look of the stitch, where each stitch loops over the edge of the fabric.

But it does not stay the same on every machine like stretch stitch. Depending on your machine model, it might be labeled something like:

If you’re not sure, check your machine’s manual. It usually includes a little icon guide explaining what each stitch blanket stitch symbol means.

What Presser Foot To Use For Blanket Stitch?

I’ve found that using an open toe foot or a clear appliqué foot makes a huge difference when I’m doing a blanket stitch. This foot also helps me to quilt on the machine.

How To Do A Blanket Stitch On Sewing Machine?

So to do a blanket on the sewing machine, follow the below 5 steps,

First, we’re picking the right stitch. On my machine, that’s stitch number 20, located in the second row of decorative stitches. You can use this stitch for a buttonhole stitch machine, too.

My machine automatically set it to 2mm wide and 2mm long. That’s a decent place to start, but honestly, it felt a little too small and tight for anything bigger than a tiny applique piece. The stitches looked kind of lost next to the shape.

It gave the stitch more room to show off and felt much more in proportion with the size of my applique. If you’re just getting started, I’d say go with “three and three” and adjust from there based on what looks good on your project.

Now let’s get everything under the needle. Position your applique piece on the background fabric using fusible webbing or temporary fabric glue. It makes the embroidery work so much easier.

This part is kind of tricky, so I use a clear or open-toe appliqué foot. This kind of foot gives you a wide-open view of the stitching area.

Time to start stitching.

Gently press the foot pedal and let the machine begin. Most machines will automatically do a few locking stitches at the start, which is super handy.

As you sew, your goal is to keep the straight part of the blanket stitch running parallel and just outside the edge of the applique shape, with the bite stitch hopping into the applique itself.

Keep your eyes on where the needle lands and use the edge of the foot or a guide marker to stay on track.

Take it slow — steady, even stitching looks much better than rushing.

When you get to a corner, stop with your needle down in the fabric right at the corner point.

Now, turn your fabric just a little (about halfway, or 45°), take one stitch, then turn it the rest of the way (another 45°), and keep sewing along the next side.

1. For outside corners, stop with the needle on the outer edge.
2. For inside corners, stop with the needle on the inner edge.

Curves need lots of small turns to look smooth. As you’re stitching, stop every few stitches with the needle in the fabric, lift the presser foot just a little, turn the fabric slightly, and keep going.

Warning:

To secure your stitching, press the fix or reverse button at the end to create a locking stitch.

Finally, hit the scissors button (if your machine has one) to cut the threads cleanly. Many machines even pull the thread tails to the back for you, leaving a tidy finish. If not, just gently pull the threads to the back and tie them off manually. Done!

How To Do A Blanket Stitch On A Singer Sewing Machine?

The Singer machine is different from the modern one. But it’s not impossible to do a blanket stitch. Here is what you can do,

4. Go slow, let the machine lock the starting stitches.
5. Follow the edge smoothly; pivot slightly for curves, sharply for corners.
6. Use the lock stitch button and trim threads neatly.

Blanket Stitch On Sewing Machine Pdf

If you are new to this stitch, those PDFs will simplify your life.

FAQ

Sum Up

Doing a blanket stitch on your Singer machine is super doable—and it adds a polished, hand-finished touch to your appliqué. Once you get the hang of pivoting and stitch placement, it becomes a go-to technique for creative projects!