Most machines with more than a handful of stitches have one, drawn on the dial as a comb: a straight line with regular perpendicular spurs.
What it does. The stitch runs along the fabric and takes a periodic bite sideways into it. On an edge, that bite wraps the edge and holds it.
What it is for.
Appliqué, where it is the softer alternative to satin stitch. It leaves the appliqué fabric visible rather than encasing it in a solid band, which suits felt, wool and a hand-made look.
Fleece and felt edges, which do not fray and only need finishing for appearance.
Blanket and throw edges, in a heavier decorative thread.
Machine imitation of hand blanket stitch, on anything where the hand version would take an evening.
How to sew it well. The straight part of the stitch should run just outside the appliqué edge and the sideways bite should land inside it. Sew slowly and steer so the bite falls consistently. Stabiliser underneath, always — the stitch is not dense but it still pulls.
Settings. Width 2.5 to 4 mm, length 2 to 2.5 mm. Wider and longer for a more hand-worked look, narrower and shorter for a tighter finish.
At corners, stop with the needle down on the outer side of the turn, lift the foot and pivot. Pivoting on the wrong side of the stitch leaves a gap.
Thread. A slightly heavier thread reads better, since the stitch is meant to be seen.
Questions people actually ask
Which foot should I use?
An open-toe or appliqué foot. You need to see exactly where the sideways bite is landing, and a standard foot hides it.
My corners look untidy.
Pivot with the needle down on the outside of the turn, and adjust the stitch length slightly so a full stitch lands at the corner.
Last reviewed 2026-08-11