Embroidery is more than embellishment: it expresses style, quality and skilled craftsmanship. Among the many techniques available, the blanket stitch (punto coperta) and the fan stitch (punto ventaglio, sometimes associated with smocking effects) stand out for their structural strength and refined appearance.

These seemingly simple techniques require precision and a deep understanding of materials to become finishes that enhance a garment, an accessory or an interior piece. We look at their technical characteristics and applications.

1. Blanket stitch

Originally used to finish blanket edges and prevent heavy fabrics from fraying, blanket stitch is now a staple of high-end finishing.

2. Fan stitch

Although less familiar in a purely technical context than blanket stitch, fan stitch is often associated with drawn-thread work or decorative smocking effects. Stitches gather into repeated curves resembling rays or fans.

The strength of both techniques lies in their versatility and their ability to adapt to different materials while producing a couture finish.

In fashion: garments, footwear and accessories

The luxury industry uses these techniques to define a product’s structure as well as to decorate it.

• High-fashion garments: Blanket stitch is a natural choice for finishing the edges of tweed jackets and cashmere coats or securing leather appliqués to fine fabrics. It helps keep the edge intact and well defined over time.
• Bags and straps: On leather and technical fabrics, blanket stitch can form decorative, functional edge seams designed to withstand mechanical stress. Fan stitch can add raised decorative textures to central panels.
• Luxury footwear: From handcrafted trainers to soft leather boots, these finishes add a tailored, custom touch and reinforce joins in composite uppers, combining appearance with durability.

In interiors: luxury textiles and linens

For luxury interiors, embroidery can turn household textiles into tactile design pieces.

• Cushions and throws: Blanket stitch is well suited to finishing the edges of decorative cushions and wool or silk throws, giving them a robust, hand-stitched appearance.
• Tablecloths and fine table linens: With its wave-like effect, fan stitch can create openwork inserts or embroidered, undulating edges on linen tablecloths, adding movement to the fabric.
• Curtains and decorative panels: Blanket stitch worked in contrasting thread adds a strong graphic element to curtains and panels, bringing out a play of shadow and volume in the light.

Why work with a technical embroidery workshop?

Producing an excellent blanket or fan stitch requires modern machinery and, above all, programmers who can adjust tension, stitch density and the way the embroidery interacts with the fabric.

At Marini Ricami 1986 Srl, we provide:

1. Digital precision: Advanced CAD software to design and simulate the three-dimensional effect before production.
2. Material guidance: Selection of suitable thread—silk, mercerised cotton or high-tenacity polyester—and needles for each base, helping prevent breakage or fabric puckering.
3. Production at scale: Samples and larger batches made to a consistent quality standard while retaining the character of skilled craft.

Take your collection further. Contact us to discuss your project.

Look beyond ordinary embroidery. Choose the precision and experience of Marini Ricami 1986.