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Antwerp edging

Antwerp edging stitch

Antwerp Edging is a decorative variation of the Blanket Stitch. The horizontal edge of the blanket stitch is decorated with tiny knots to make it more durable and decorative.

Other names of the stitch

You can find the Antwerp Edging called Knotted Blanket Stitch too.

Antwerp edging stitch front view
Antwerp edging stitchback view

Applications of the Antwerp edging stitch

This edging stitch has a decorative edging purpose and is widely used in Hardanger embroidery. It can be used in decorative embroidery and “crazy quilting” too.

Antwerp edging front view

How to embroider Antwerp Edging Stitch

Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial

Instructions

1. Mark two parallel rows (as for the regular Blanket stitch).

2. Make a Blanket stitch.

How to embroider Antwerp edging stitch - step 1

3. Before making the next Blanket stitch, pass the needle under the loop of the blanket stitch and a working thread and make a knot. 

How to embroider Antwerp edging stitch - step 2

4. Tighten the knot by pulling the working thread.

How to embroider Antwerp edging stitch - step 3

5. Make one more Blanket stitch and add a knot.

6. Repeat the steps until your row is finished.

Video tutorial

How to embroider Antwerp edging stitch

Tools and materials I used for this sampler

Disclaimer. To cover the cost of creating free embroidery patterns and video tutorials for this blog, I do sometimes link to products. Please assume these links are affiliate links. If you choose to buy through my links then THANK YOU – it will make it possible for me to keep doing this.

DMC Pearl Cotton #8 thread on Etsy
DMC Pearl Cotton #8
Beechwood embroidery hoops Etsy
Embroidery hoop
Bohin Embroidery Needles Etsy
Bohin Embroidery Needles
Embroidery Scissors Etsy
Embroidery Scissors

What’s next?

If you’re in the mood to explore more hand embroidery stitches, check out the Stitches and Techniques page for the list of other fantastic stitches available on my blog. From timeless classics to modern twists, a whole world of stitches is waiting for you to explore and master. So, grab your hoop and needle, and let’s stitch our way to creative bliss!

Need More Guidance?

The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.

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