Step 2: Stitching Layers Together

Now you are ready to sew the layers together using one of the following methods:

MACHINE STITCHING

   1. Because knitted fabric is so stretchy, set your machine to zig zag stitch.  Some machines may feature a stretch stitch (represented by three vertical dashed lines), which may even be preferable.  If the knitting is very bulky (1 - 2.5 stitches per inch), set the stitch length longer than you would normally use for woven fabric.  
   2. Beginning at the center edge of one side with the knitting side facing up, sew along three edges of the blanket with a 1/2 inch seam.  Sew along part of the first side; end  10 - 15 inches before you reach the starting place.  Be sure to back stitch at each end.  Remove the safety pins.
   3. Turn the blanket right side out and hand stitch the opening to finish.
   4. Lay the blanket on a flat surface and tape down the edges once again.  Beginning in the center, baste the blanket again.  This time the safety pins can be further apart, 8 - 10 inches.

 
HAND STITCHING

   1. Mark a 1/2 inch seam on the fabric side of the basted blanket as a guide.
   2. Beginning at the center edge of one side, sew along three edges of the blanket with a running stitch. Depending on the bulkiness on the knitted fabric, vary the length of your stitches:  bulky yarn (1 - 2.5 stitches per inch) calls for longer stitches.  Sew along part of the first side; end 10 - 15 inches before you reach the starting place.  Remove the safety pins.
   3. Turn the blanket right side out and hand stitch the opening to finish.
   4. Lay the blanket on a flat surface and tape down the edges once again.  Beginning in the center, baste the blanket again.  This time the safety pins can be further apart, 8 - 10 inches.