Embroidery Stitches part 2 Chain and Blanket stitch.

 

Chain Stitch and Blanket Stitch are today's stitches we will be doing. For all these refresher lessons I am using calio and two strands of embroidery thread.


Chain Stitch.

Chain stitch is also one of the basic stitches for embroidery and has a number of variants. Chain stitch is used to create lines and repeat rows to create fillings. The loops on chain stitch should all be the same size and not pulled tight as you need to allow them to look round in shape.

1. Bring the needle to the front of the fabric.
2. Put the needle in again at the start  and bring in out just passed the starting point, keep the thread under the needle.
3.  Put the needle in at the same place you came out of and bring it again with the thread under the needle. Repeat all three steps and your chain will take shape.
4. To finish, make a small stitch over the last loop.

You have now mastered Chain stitch...... Well done!

Blanket Stitch.

Blanket stitches have developed from the traditional stitch used to edge blankets. The horizontal part of the stitch gives a neat finish to a raw fabric edge and prevents fraying. They are also used for applique and when worked closely together, for edging buttonholes. Decorative versions have developed for use as bands and boarders.

1. Work from left to right or right to left depending on if you are right or left handed.
2. Bring the needle up on the line of the pattern or edge of the fabric.
3. Take a stitch down from the line and bring the needle back to where you started, keeping the thread on the left (for right handed or on the right if you are left handed.)
4. Insert the needle to the right of the first stitch, down from the line or edge, and bring it back out on the line or edge. Always making sure the thread is behind your needle.

I do find this stitch difficult to keep even but when I was read my Ladybird Book Learning to sew, it suggested that if you put a chalk line parallel to the edge of the fabric or design, it will help you keep the stitches even.

Have a practise and see how you go..........

Next time we will look at Cross stitch and Satin stitch. Soon we can start our picture sampler for the cabin.

Thank you for stopping by....... See you soon !

Happy sewing