Embroidery adds a special appearance to tablecloths, pillowcases, blankets, clothing, and other items. Although many of the designs look very involved, the basics of embroidery aren't as hard to master as you might expect. With a few accessories and a pattern, you can get rolling.
Embroidery by Hand
Hand embroidery is not difficult and requires only basic supplies. You can purchase fabric, needles, thread, hoops and needlepoint stands at Hobby Lobby or any other large craft store. Patterns are also available for purchase, although thrifty crafters may want to take advantage of free hand embroidery patterns.
Exploring Stitches
Once you get the hang of basic embroidery, you can expand your needlework through exploring different types like punch needle embroidery. This type of embroidery uses a special punch needle to add dimension to a design.
Thread Made Easy
Thread is life for embroidery. Every design requires something a little different. For example, goldwork needs gold thread but depending on your pattern it might be brand specific. Don't fret, though! Thread conversion charts can make sure that you have a harmonious mix of colors, so your pattern is perfect.
Machine Created Embroidery
If you find that you really enjoy hand embroidery, you may want to consider investing in a machine for creating more elaborate designs. Embroidery machines look like ordinary sewing machines but use computerized embroidery software to create designs on your fabric. They can be rather expensive to purchase, but you can take advantage of many embroidery freebies that are available to help keep down your project costs. Many people who enjoy machine embroidery also manage to earn extra money by selling their items at craft fairs or through an online Etsy shop. A machine can also make your embroidery quilting projects a breeze.
Find Embroidery Patterns
Embroidery is all about the patterns. From making pillowcases with shooting stars to adding butterflies to your quilt blocks, there is an assortment of free downloadable embroidery designs that you can find for your hand needlework or even your machine. Explore the numerous websites that offer custom embroidery patterns from angels to back-to-school. Find vintage patterns that go back to the 1800s. Some even come from Beeton's Book of Needlework. You might even use these as inspiration to create your own custom designs. Every design had to come from somewhere.
Maximizing Your Needlework
Embroidery can be as simple as putting your initials on your pillowcase or as elaborate as decorating a quilt with different trains for your toddler. Whether you do it by hand or by machine, there are resources available at your disposal to improve your embroidery experience. Not only that you can learn a new technique or two.