Unit 2 · Project 1Current Project

Felt Stitch Sampler

Before you sew anything for real, you need to build muscle memory with the needle. Your stitch sampler is a practice card where you'll demonstrate all 6 required stitches: running stitch, backstitch, whip stitch, blanket stitch, cross stitch, and satin stitch. Each stitch should be neat, even, and labeled. This is your reference card for the rest of the unit — keep it! Here's what each stitch does: the Running Stitch is the easiest — pass the needle in and out in a straight line, great for basting or holding light layers. The Backstitch is the strongest hand stitch — each new stitch begins at the end of the previous one, ideal for seams and high-stress areas. The Blanket Stitch wraps the edge of fabric and is perfect for finishing edges and decorative crafts. The Whip Stitch wraps thread over the edge to join two pieces together. Cross Stitch forms an X pattern for decorative fills. Satin Stitch fills a shape with parallel stitches for a smooth, solid look.

Reference: Hand Sewing 101

Hand Sewing 101: Mastering the Basics — preparation, essential stitches, running stitch, backstitch, blanket stitch, mending

Objectives

1
Complete all 6 stitches on your sampler card: running, backstitch, whip, blanket, cross, and satin
2
Each stitch section must be at least 2 inches long
3
Label each stitch with its name
4
Demonstrate consistent stitch length and tension throughout
5
Follow all sewing room safety rules before picking up a needle

Materials

Felt sampler card (provided)
Embroidery needle
Embroidery floss in 3+ colors
Fabric scissors (for thread only — not paper)
Thimble (recommended)
Pencil for labeling
Pin cushion for storing needles when not in use

Tips & Techniques

1SAFETY FIRST: Keep all pins and needles in your pin cushion or sewing kit when not in use — never leave them loose on the table

2Never put pins or needles in your mouth — ever

3Use a thimble to protect your fingertips when pushing the needle through fabric

4Thread your needle by pulling thread through the eye until both ends match — this gives you double-strength sewing

5Tie a double knot at the end of your thread to prevent it from slipping through the weave

6Start by piercing fabric from the bottom so the knot stays hidden on the underside

7Thread your needle with about 18 inches of floss — longer tangles easily

8Pull thread snug but not so tight it puckers the felt

9Watch the demo video before starting — seeing the motion helps more than reading about it

Reference: Sewing Room Safety

Sewing Room Safety: The Essential Student Guide — sharps management, scissor discipline, workspace awareness, equipment maintenance

Reference: Hand Sewing 101

Lesson Videos

Running Stitch

3 min

Learn the running stitch — the most fundamental hand sewing stitch used in appliqué and fabric work.

Downloads

Unit 2 Student WorkbookPDF Felt Practice Stitch BookPDF

Back to

Unit 2 Overview

Hand-Sewn Felt Patch