The Serger Blanket Stitch

[@marysmith7313]

I am so glad I found your site! I think your tutorials are the best! I'm 85 and still crazy about sewing. I'm going to get your books as well. Thank You!

[@saraaronzon4562]

Can’t wait to try, I am new learner. Thank you so much for your lessons.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Sara, Let me know if you have questions and I'll be happy to help you. Sergers are so much fun and I want you to get the full potential from yours!

[@ea8435]

Thanks Gail. I have had my serger for a few years and this was my first attempt at doing a to thread blanket stitch. Thank goodness you had this video available or I would have never figured this out. I had forgotten that you needer that stabilizer, so thank you so much, it saved me from tons of frustration and I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate that you have these free videos for us viewers to be able to learn from.♥️

[@GailPatriceDesign]

So glad it was just what you needed. Hope you subscribed and tell your sewing friends! I have virtual serger classes available to purchase in my website store and have new ones planned for 2021. Stay tuned and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips. Happy New Year!

[@williamcruz1887]

Thank you! I been searching for this for several months! Exactly what I need and explained for a beginner like me! I just need to take the leap and invest into a serger!

[@dianebeal4216]

Thank you for all your time and great videos. Today I whipped up a fleece blanket with this technique.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Diane, the blanket stitch is such a pretty way to edge a blanket. Hey maybe that’s why they call it a blanket stitch!🤣 Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@laurigiese8885]

It's like early Christmas finding your site. I have a brand new serger and a new cover stitch machine. This is graduating up from a old 80s singer serger. I'm so excited to try all the exciting new stitches and tricks and tips you are showing

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Lauri, Congratulations on your machine upgrades. What machines did you purchase? Whatever machine you have, I'll be very happy to help you with questions and techniques. It's like a different world of sergers from the 80's models. You'll love the increased ease of use and stitch capabilities! Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips and tell your sewing friends about my KZbin channel!

[@janicebradfordbelltolleshu4383]

You make this look so easy. I have a bunch of fleece remnants so now I am going to be making baby blankets out of them. Love your videos. My husband just got me an Imagine. I am watching your videos over and over again. Thanks.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

That's great, Janice! The blanket stitch is easy and there are so many nice threads to choose from. Find a soft thread for the blanket stitch to prevent irritating a baby's delicate skin. Thanks!

[@bonnieraekonjevich2776]

OMG, Never Knew. Bought my B.L.Imagine 7 yrs. ago, used, so cluless, I didn't get this instruction. BLESS YOU! Thank You, Have a great life. With Stabilizer amazing results! Tape amazing trick!!!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Bonnie Rae Konjevich Thanks, Bonnie.will be delighted to answer any questions you have . Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

The machine set up for the 2-thread reverse flat lock (ladder stitch) is exactly the same as the blanket stitch. But the reverse flatlock can be used as a joining stitch (between 2 pieces of fabric) or in the fabric surface, but not as an edge treatment. The "added ingredient" to turn the reverse flatlock into the blanket stitch is the strip of stabilizer. It's like magic!

[@lynnemounier4058]

So CLEAR and GREAT TO FOLLOW ‼️ Thankyou Gail 👍

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Lynne Mounier thanks for watching and send along any questions ! Stay safe.

[@ellexusse]

This is utterly brilliant! Thank you!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Thanks for watching, Elle and glad you like the technique!

[@ditzlela]

Thank you!! Spent last few hours in books and phone call. This is perfect!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Linda, Glad it was so helpful and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@ditzlela]

@@GailPatriceDesign Just saw this. Unfortunately I used #12 embroidery thread as no decorative thread matched from where I purchase my notions. It kept breaking. I had to give up and just resorted to a 2 thread blanket stitch. Don't really like the look so planning to add a binding now and cover those stitches.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@ditzlela Some embroidery threads won’t withstand the tension on a serger and are too lightweight for a good looking blanket stitch. If you try a Jean stitch thread which is 12 weight or similar I think you’ll like the look. Pearl crown rayon (8 weight) is also beautiful. What machine are you working on and what are your settings? Thanks.

[@ditzlela]

@@GailPatriceDesign I'm using Babylock Accolade.

[@ditzlela]

I used the Quick Reference Threading Guide, 2-Thread Flatlock-Wide setup. Wish I could send pic.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Yolandida, experiment with a variety of threads. Sergers perform differently with various types and weights of threads. Stitch quality can change depending on thread weights and textures. A Jean Stitch thread generally works well in many (but not all) sergers. Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@brettster3331]

Great technique Gail, so glad I found your channel.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

I'm glad you found my channel too, Brett. Thanks for watching-did you subscribe?

[@esperansaloughran693]

Wow so cool thank you, just bought your book as well. Just getting started, very exciting.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Esperansa, I'll be happy to hear from you if you have questions. It's fun helping newbies and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@DesigingJ]

This is ingenious. Can’t wait to try it. Thanks

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Glad you like it Designing J and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@susiebunch8791]

Your tutorials are great

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Susie Bunch thanks for watching SergerTip Clips-glad you’re enjoying them!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Sergers can do amazing stitches. It's just a matter of knowing how to set up the stitch! thanks for watching and ask your friends to subscribe to my KZbin channel-happy sewing and Serging!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Carmen, Yes, it's fine to use a regular top stitch needle for decorative stitches. So glad you enjoyed my workshop at ASG a couple of years ago. Hope to see you in Indy this summer at Conference. Thanks for watching the Tip Clips-tell,your sewing friends too;-) and my book is also a great reference. Be sure to send along any other questions you think of. Great to hear from you! Happy Sewing and Serging, Gail

[@jacquelinerobinson9158]

Your tip are wonderfully presented. Thank You Very Much.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

You're welcome, Jacqueline. Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@jacquelinerobinson9158]

+Gail Yellen I'm using a Brother Lock 1034D. Your information is good know.

[@Luvfostermom]

Couldn't find a piece of one inch wide tear away stabilizer so I used some long parchment paper ( for cooking) cut it in strips and used that as a tear away and it worked great.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Great tip-thanks very much for that and watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@carolmenton8670]

These tidbits are just the right size for me. Thank you for the great information.

[@nanavickyb1]

Great tutorial! Thank you!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

You’re welcome, Vicki and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@ivyhernandez2526]

Wow, I love this. Never new we could do this. Thanks so much.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Ivy Hernandez you’re welcome Ivy. Glad you’ve learned another creative way to use your Serger stitches and thanks for watching!

[@maggiem4734]

I really enjoyed the blanket stitch tip, ty 👌🏼💕

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Glad you enjoyed the Blanket Stitch Tip, Maggie and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Thanks Mary! I'm crazy about sewing too and am at the American Sewing Guild National Conference right now! Thanks for watching and ask your sewing friends to subscribe to my KZbin channel.

[@zinnia20207]

Thank you!. I love your videos. You are great teacher.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips and check out my Pinterest Board "Serge Outside the Seams" for fun inspiration. Free US shipping until December 10th from my web store!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Thanks for watching, Barbara!

[@hangkimsmith5146]

Love your work.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

HANGKIM SMITH thanks very much!

[@martalieb5490]

This is so clever! Thank you!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

You're welcome. Marta and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@Sooz3112]

Great tip, thank you x

[@GailPatriceDesign]

You’re welcome-it’s a cool stitch. Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Be sure to subscribe to my KZbin channel so that when you do purchase your Serger, you’ll have lots of Tip Clips for help. Thanks for watching!

[@lindasverdrup4142]

Your video is wonderful! Any recommendation on edging color for a black/dark gray fleece with a sage green/white silver print on it? I have black, dark grey, silver, and sage. I have embroidery thread. Will that work, or do I need a heavier thread?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Linda, Glad the Blanket Stitch video is helpful for you. You will definitely need heavy thick thread for fleece. Embroidery thread will completely disappear when it sinks into lofty fleece. I suggest picking up the sage color with 8-weight thread which is nice and bold. 12-wt. will also work but it won't have quite as much "pop" as 8-wt. Let me know if you have any other questions and thanks for watching!

[@lindasverdrup4142]

@@GailPatriceDesign Thank you so much!

[@lindasverdrup4142]

@@GailPatriceDesign How much thread to go around 1.5-2 yard 60" width fleece do I need?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@lindasverdrup4142 you’re welcome Linda!

[@1daizie]

Wow amazing. Thank you much!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

You're welcome and thanks for watching!

[@le-my4032]

Hi Gail, excellent video, thanks so much for sharing. May I ask what thread you used here (inc. thickness)? Many thanks!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@le-my4032 hi, on fleece or other thick, lofty fabrics, 8-wt threads work best for the blanket stitch. Lighter weight threads tend to sink into the fabrics and get lost. Hope that helps and thanks for watching!

[@patsmith9736]

I know it’s quite a long time since you did this video, but if you happen to get this post, can you please tell me what your call that stabilizer. I have looked for it but can’t find it any where. Thanks so very much. Just love your videos..

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Pat, I receive all questions on newer as well as older videos through my email. I want to answer all questions for my viewers. The stabilizer is Solvy (made by Sulky). You can purchase it at chain stores and sewing machine dealers if they carry Sulky brand stabilizers. There are other brands as well of similar products. Just be sure it’s transparent so you can see the fabric under it. Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips and Happy Thanksgiving!

[@patsmith9736]

@@GailPatriceDesign is that the same as what I use for embroidery?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@patsmith9736 Yes it is!

[@vickiecopeland7131]

How in the world do I do a blanket stitch with that clear material on a large throw out of fleece or Joann’s Sew Lush Fleece? Great video.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Vickie, As with any specialty stitch, test your settings on scrap fabric first. With fleece, you'll probably want to use a thicker, bolder decorative thread (like a 12 wt. or 8 wt.) Lighter weight thread will sink into the fabric and won't show as well. And for a blanket that has long, wide edges, cut multiple strips of Solvy Stabilizer and just keep adding it to the edge as needed.It's a cool stitch and fleece is a perfect fabric to use it on. Let me know if you need more help and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@vickiecopeland7131]

@@GailPatriceDesign thank you so much! I just got my serger right before Covid started . I’m totally a beginner. I will be watching because I surely need help! Thanks again!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@vickiecopeland7131 I Love helping newbies so I’ll look forward to hearing from you. What serger did you buy? Please reach out and even if we need to schedule a phone call, I’ll be happy to do it. Once you get comfortable with your serger (and you will), you’ll wonder how you did without it.

[@vickiecopeland7131]

@@GailPatriceDesign I bought a Baby Lock Enlighten. It was new in the box. I know it is no longer made but more than enough for no more expertise than I have. My mom sewed a lot . I did for 4H many years ago and I had to take out and do over since my Mom was a perfectionist. Now, I wish I had listened and paid more attention. Hindsight is 20/20!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@vickiecopeland7131 the Enlighten is a wonderful machine, so it's a great choice and should give you many years of great service. Your mom was a wise woman. You can email questions directly to me: [e-mail] and I can help you with anything-thanks!

[@soniaojeda5019]

Wow...this is awesome! Thanks for the tutorial. Now to try it. :D

[@iwyellen]

Thanks, Sonia! You'll be amazed at how many beautiful techniques you can do easily on your serger. Stay tuned for upcoming new Serger Tip CLips!

[@soniaojeda5019]

Thank you Ira! Most definitely will. :D

[@lyndasnart7823]

Great instructions thankyou 🌍👍🇦🇺

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Lynda Snart you’re welcome, Lynda. Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@Bluebird4me]

Beginners question - Do you have your knife disengaged?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Jeannie, No, the knife is engaged. I have a class, Serger Essentials, in my website store gailpatrice.com that you will find helpful. It’s great for beginners as well as a refresher for those who don’t use their sergers often. Happy New Year and let me know if you have more questions. I love helping newbies. Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@Bluebird4me]

I see that you will also offer a virtual class for the sewing expo. What are the differences between the 2 classes?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@Bluebird4me the Expo class will be live and the class in my store is pre-recorded. They will cover similar techniques. Let me know if you have more questions-thanks!

[@Bluebird4me]

Thank you !😊

[@matuzak4]

Thank you!!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips Denise!

[@georgiamandl9455]

Is all wash away stabilizer the same? I borrow some to try and it seems to tear easy - it was called 551 Sol-u-film - it tore off before I got my stitches pulled over...any thoughts appreciated...I really wasn't pulling hard, but this is my first try...very new to all of this. Thank you!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Georgia, there are various weights (thicknesses )of wash away stabilizers. I’ve had the same thing happen to me when using a thick decorative thread . The thread rips through the stabilizer. You can use two layers of Solvy rather than a heavier weight, like Super Solvy. Pull both layers at the same time and dab with water to dissolve and remove it. Or you can use Super Solvy that is heavier and won’t tear. It will need a bit more time to dissolve with dabbing water or you can soak it off if your fabric is washable. Hope that helps and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@jacquelynmorris-smith6000]

Gail Yellen, so in doing the blanket stitch we do not put the looper thread in the tension or isn it the left needle thread we do not put into the tension?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

HI Jacquelyn, It depends on the serger. Which brand and model machine are you using?

[@maryslattery8696]

Can you use this blanket stitch on a double layer of fleece if you would like a thicker blanket or would it be too bulky?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Mary, That's a great question...I've never tried it on a double layer of fleece. It also depends on how thick each layer is. Some of the 100 wt. fleeces are lighter so it might work. But the best way to find out is to try it. Adjust the stitch length to the longest and use a heavier weight decorative thread. A thin thread will get lost visually. Let us know if it's successful and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@tinomobiel1102]

Great video! Which specific fleece are you using here?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Tino, I am using a 200 weight Polarfleece. Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@ohiogal6763]

I'm confused - you say you're using the left needle but it sure looks like the right hand needle to me. The left and center needle positions appear to be open and the right needle is in the machine. Is that correct? Thanks.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

No, it's definitely the left overlock needle. I think you might be looking at the chain needle positions to the left of the overlock needles. Or it could be the camera angle. But it is the left overlock needle that I'm stitching with. Thanks!

[@ohiogal6763]

okay, thank you Gail :)

[@tessvaccaro1004]

Do you mind sharing the details on the thread?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Tess, the thread is a 12 wt. Egyptian cotton. My favorite brand is WonderFil Spagetti. Let me know if you have more questions and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@tessvaccaro1004]

Thanks for responding. I love your work ❤

[@GailPatriceDesign]

@@tessvaccaro1004 You're welcome, Tess and thanks for the nice compliment!

[@LeseaBerry]

What model is this serger sewing machine?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Lesea, that sample was stitched on a Babylock Ovation. The blanket stitch can be stitched on any serger that has a 2-thread overlock function. Thanks for watching!

[@carlottabozzano246]

Ciao hola tagliecuci. Beby Look Evolution 7 fili se fosse possibile vedere il video del punto piatto decorativo x capire come si fa grazie mille

[@yolantida]

what type of thread should I use?

[@ivybichon8582]

I have an ovation as well. So it's ok to use an ordinary sewing machine top stitching needle vs the machine recommended ones? By the way I loved your class you gave a the Asg convention 2 years ago

[@Marnie1869]

What is the lower looper set at.?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Mary, my machine doesn’t have tension settings. But check your manual for suggested settings for a 2-thread flatlock stitch. The lower looper setting is usually high and the needle tension is low. You might have to experiment with a variety of settings until you get the desired results. Let me know if you have more questions and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@jackiemaddox6933]

Thanks for the video! Can this technique be used with a double layer of fleece? If not, what serger stitch would you recommend? Thank you

[@GailPatriceDesign]

You can experiment with 2 layers. Just adjust the stitch length to the longest possible on your serger. You may also have to try using a slightly heavier wash away stabilizer because pulling the needle thread across 2 layers may need a bit more stabilizer strength. If you can't get it to work, a 3-thread wide overlock works very well through 2 layers. Make samples to get just the right stitch length for the weight thread, etc you're using. Let me know if you need more help and thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips. For more fun inspiration, check out my "Serge Outside the Seams" Board on Pinterest.

[@jackiemaddox6933]

Thank you so much for replying! Love the look of the blanket stitch but will probably use the 3-thread wide overlock on this blanket project. Do plan to test the blanket stitch on a single layer of fleece. Will definitely check out your "Serge Outside the Seams" Board on Pinterest. Love your videos!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Great and if you have suggestions or ideas for future Tip Clips, send them along!

[@NancyinPA]

Where did you get the thing to hang your tube turners on your bulletin board?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Nancy Willits I purchased that about 15 years ago as a whole kit. You can probably find it on eBay or call around to different sewing machine dealers. It’s very handy! Thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@TheCynedd]

When doing this edge blanket stitch I save money in stabilizer by using the scraps of wash-away I have left over from other projects.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

TheCynedd I do too! It’s a great way to use small scraps . I save them in a ziplock bag for machine-made buttonholes too. Thanks for watching!

[@janicebradfordbelltolleshu4383]

Will embroidery tear away stabilizer backing work to use making the blanket stitch on flannel? I searched for tear away stabilizer about 4 in wide? Do you have any suggestions? I have tons of flannel scraps and new Imagine Serger.. Thanks Janice

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Janice, I have never tried tear away stabilizer for the blanket stitch. You won't find 4" wide stabilizer-just cut strips. (That's what I did.) If you do use tear away, let me know how it works. You'll have to pull off all of the little stabilizer tidbits from under the stitches. The Imagine is a fantastic serger-you'll love it!!!!! Will look forward to hearing about your results-thanks!

[@janicebradfordbelltolleshu4383]

Wow, that was a quick answer. Can I do the blanket stitch without the stabilizer? I have used brown packing paper before on another project? I ordered the clear stabilizer from Amazon today. I may wait on it and send the 50 yd roll of embroidery stabilizer to Amazon. Someone saw the material and is waiting on the blanket. Thanks so much for the quick reply. Love your Serger tips.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

No, you need the stabilizer to pull the needle thread across the fabric to the edge. After answering your previous question about tear away stabilizer, I think that the tear away will do just that-tear away before pulling the threads. Definitely a wash away stabilizer like Solvy will work best. Glad you're enjoying the Tip Clips. Tell your sewing friends about them and ask them to subscribe to my KZbin channel-it's free!

[@carlottabozzano246]

Ciao x favore quello che sivede e'il punto piatto decorativo ?grazie

[@GailPatriceDesign]

L'impostazione della macchina per il punto coperta è esattamente la stessa di un punto piatto a 2 fili. Ma stai cucendo sopra lo stabilizzatore e tirando il filo dell'ago fino al bordo del tessuto. Fammi sapere se hai bisogno di più aiuto. Grazie per rimanere in contatto!

[@Fullbobbin]

Hi Gail, thanks for the tip! Must you have a coverstitch serger to use this technique?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

No, the blanket stitch is a 2-thread overlock stitch. (No cover stitch required.) You want to check whether your serger has 2-thread capability and the fastest way to find out is in the owner's manual table of contents. If your machine can form a stitch with the needle thread and lower looper thread, in your accessory case, you will find an upper looper converter. (On some brands, it's called a subsidiary looper.) You can also access this info in the owner's manual where you'll see a photo or illustration for how to position it. Let me know if you have any other questions-will be happy to help. Thanks for watching the Tip Clips and tell your sewing friends to tune in-thanks!

[@sarahadevine]

That's amazing!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Sarah, Glad you like the technique-thanks for watching Serger Tip Clips!

[@jeanfrederic1377]

Thank you so much for your tutorials, they have saved me multiple times! One question, are you using decorative threads in the needles and the looper?

[@GailPatriceDesign]

I used a 12wt. decorative thread in the left overlock needle (topstitch needle). Serger cone thread was in the lower looper. Glad the Tip Clips have been so helpful and thanks for watching, Jean!

[@eCoach7]

So clever!

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Glad you liked it and thanks for watching!

[@av8r225]

What kind of decorative thread did you use in your demo? It's beautiful! I love your videos.

[@irayellen3402]

+Fly Girl I used YLI Jeans Stitch thread in the lower looper as well as a topstitch needle. Glad you enjoy the videos-thanks!

[@jackiekraemer596]

love this

[@Cecibug1]

All of that machine talk made me scratch my head. Iv never used a serger. That stich is beautiful though.

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Cecily 95 if you like to sew, it’s worthwhile to check out sergers. They give a professional finish to seams and the decorative stitches and threads you can use are amazing. Thanks for watching!

[@carlottabozzano246]

Quale e' il punto piatto decorativo con bebi look non capire inglis !

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Hi Carlotta, I'm sorry I can't understand what you're question is. Can you ask again? I'll be happy help you with anything you want to know. Thank you for your patience and for setting in touch.

[@barbaraward254]

How cool 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@carlottabozzano246]

Ti ringrazio provero a farlo poi tifacciosapre buona notte cara amica !

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Di niente, Carlotta. Spero di risentirti!

[@mariamarfil1620]

WOW! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼❤️

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Glad you enjoyed the Tip Clip, Maria. Thanks for watching!

[@carlottabozzano246]

Non capireinglese ok grazie

[@GailPatriceDesign]

Ciao Carlotta, Fai la tua domanda in italiano e io posso tradurla in Google Translate. Spero di sentirti presto di nuovo. Grazie!