Long and Short Blanket Stitch
Long and Short Blanket Stitch is a decorative variation of the basic Blanket Stitch. It belongs to the family of the Blanket stitch.
The technique of this stitch is straightforward: The Blanket stitches, with the legs of varying lengths, are embroidered between two parallel lines. Usually, the long and short legs are alternated, but you can also make them of three lengths and decide on how you alternate the lengths.
On the reverse side of the embroidery, the row of parallel straight stitches of alternating lengths will be visible.
Applications of the Long and Short Blanket Stitch
Just like basic Blanket stitch, the long & short version is handy for edging the fabrics – securing and decorating the edges at the same time.
Also, this hand embroidery technique is widely used in decorative surface embroidery, crazy quilting, and for mending.
More stitches from the Blanket Stitch family
You will find more variations of this embroidery technique in the article “Blanket Stitch and Its Variations” on this blog.
Learn how to embroider Long and Short Blanket Stitch
Follow the step-by-step tutorial with detailed photos below, and you will learn this Blanket Stitch variation 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 Long and Short Blanket Stitch
Step-by-step hand embroidery tutorial
1. Mark two parallel lines for guidance. Make the first loop for the Blanket stitch.
2. Tighten the loop and make one more stitch to the right. This time, the leg of the stitch is shorter.
3. Add the third stitch, which should be the same length as the first stitch. This alternation will create a long – short pattern.
4. You can also group the stitches of three different lengths to create an even more decorative pattern of Long and Short Blanket Stitch.
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. So, grab your hoop and needle, and let’s stitch our way to creative bliss!
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Need More Guidance?
The top 10 hand embroidery stitches to learn is a free online course created for beginners.
