Boxed Blanket Stitch
Boxed Blanket Stitch is a simple variation of the Blanket Stitch, created by combining the base stitch with a row of the Running Stitch. This extra pass adds durability and stability and creates a decorative brick or square motif.
On the back, this embroidery looks very similar to the front: a line of vertical stitches where every second stitch connects to the previous one.
Applications of the Boxed Blanket Stitch
This variation of the popular base stitch is a Blanket Stitch with extra security. An additional row of Running Stitch keeps the edge in place. It is extra handy when you want to make a rolled hem on materials that tend to deform and don’t hold the fold well.
Besides adding stability, the Boxed Blanket Stitch gives the edge a decorative, neat look. You can use it for garments and home textiles – anywhere the robust and nice-looking stitch is needed.
More stitches from the Blanket Stitch family
Learn how to embroider Boxed Blanket Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn the Boxed Blanket Stitch quickly. If you are a visual learner, watch a video lesson in the tutorial or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel to learn this hand embroidery stitch faster.
How to embroider Boxed Blanket Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Mark two parallel lines for guidance. Start with a regular Blanket Stitch – make a diagonal stitch from the lower mark to the upper line. Leave the loop of the working thread open.
2. Push the needle back to the surface on the second marked line, right under the entry point, in the loop of the thread.
3. Pull the thread through and tighten the loop. Then, repeat the steps to make the second stitch.
4. Position the stitches equally spaced between them.
5. After you finish the row, push the needle to the back to secure the last stitch.
6. Now, add a row of the Running Stitch. Start at the same position as the last Blanket Stitch.
7. Running Stitch will connect every second leg of the Blanket Stitch.
8. When finished with the entire row of Boxed Blanket Stitch, push the needle to the back and secure the thread.
Video tutorial
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.
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. Decorative stitches, techniques for filling and outlines, borders or mending – all in one place!
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Need More Guidance?
The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.
