Scallop stitch
Scallop stitch combines the Running stitch and Blanket stitches positioned close to each other. First, we embroider a base with Running stitches and then cover them with a Blanket stitch. This combination of the stitches gives the edge stability and creates a slightly raised stitch.
Other names of the stitch
This stitch is also called Blanket stitch Scallops or Scallop edging.
Applications of the Scallop stitch
This stitch is mainly used for decorative edging – you can apply it to the tablecloth, fabric napkins, or the edges of garments. The excess fabric is cut away after the stitches are applied when used for edging.
Besides that, we can use this embroidery stitch for decorative purposes in surface embroidery.
If you aim for more raised stitches, you can fill the space between the running stitches with a dense seed stitch.
How to embroider Scallop stitch
- First, mark the half-moon shapes for the scallops on the fabric.
- Embroider on the inner edge of the marking lines with tiny running stitches. Make a row of running stitches for each marking line.
- Now add blanket stitches. Follow the marking lines and make sure all the running stitches are placed under the blanket stitches. Place blanket stitches close to each other to cover the fabric and the running stitches fully.
- If you want to use Scallop stitch for edging – cut away the external fabric when all the stitches are done. Be careful not to cut the threads.
More stitches from the Blanket stitch family
Video tutorial
If you are a visual learner, watch a video tutorial below or on the Practical Embroidery YouTube channel.
What's next?
Looking for some other stitch? Head to this blog’s Stitches and Techniques page and choose the stitch you want to learn!
N.B. Some links may take you to the Easy To Make Designs blog. This is my older hand embroidery blog. While I’m dedicating all of my energy to the Practical Embroidery blog, the previous version still has a lot of great content!