Embroidery is a timeless craft that has been cherished for generations, transforming plain fabrics into works of art with just a needle and some thread. Whether you’re stitching a delicate design on a handkerchief or creating a bold statement piece on a cushion, embroidery is a versatile and enjoyable way to express your creativity. So if you’ve always wanted to try it but weren’t quite sure how, let this be your sign. This guide will walk you through the basics and help you feel confident enough to start stitching.
Tools
Before you start embroidering, you’re going to need to gather a few essential tools that are necessary so that you can begin your journey. While the craft in itself is pretty simple, using the right tools and materials can make a huge difference in the ease and quality of your work. So, let’s see some of the most important tools.
Threads
The first and most important part is the threads. They are what brings your design to life. But, these aren’t regular threads – for this craft you need high-quality embroidery threads that won’t be hard to control and will look amazing at the end of the task. There are a lot of different types of thread available, each with its own unique properties and best uses. Choosing the right one can be tricky at first and you might need to experiment so that you can find the one that works for you.
The most common type of thread used in embroidery is cotton thread. This type is versatile, easy to work with, making it incredibly beginner-friendly. It also comes in an endless variety of colours for you to choose from. From soft pastels and rich tones to bold primary colours, there’s a cotton thread for every design. Another reason why it’s so popular is its adaptability, meaning it works beautifully on a variety of fabrics and in many different styles of embroidery.
Cotton embroidery threads typically come in a form called floss, which is made up of multiple strands twisted together. The great thing about this is that you can easily separate these strands and adjust the thickness of your thread to suit your project. Wool thread, on the other hand, is much thicker and is great for creating textured designs.
It’s not often used for traditional embroidery but it can add a lovely rustic touch to your pieces. Silk thread is another option and this thread gives a polished and more luxurious feel to your stitches, however, it can be a bit slippery to work with, especially for newbies. When choosing a thread, it’s best to consider the effect you want to achieve, the fabric you consider embroidering on, and of course the colour. Essentially, the choice is up to you and it all comes down to your preferences and needs.
Fabric and Stabiliser
The fabric you choose to embroider on is just as important as your thread. Cotton, linen, and even canvas are common choices, depending on the type of project you’re working on. For beginners, a tightly woven fabric like cotton is ideal because it’s easy to stitch on and holds the thread well. As you become more comfortable, you might branch out to more delicate fabrics, but for starters, it’s best to stick with something that won’t slip and slide under the needle.
Another thing to consider is whether you need a stabiliser. This is a material placed behind your fabric to support your stitches and prevent puckering, especially on stretchy or thin fabrics. It comes in various forms, and the one you choose will depend on the type of fabric you’re using.
Needles
Embroidery needles come in various sizes and choosing the right one depends on both your thread and fabric. In general, larger needles with are better for thicker embroidery thread like wool, while smaller needles are suited for finer threads like cotton or satin. But, it’s important to have a range of needle sizes on hand, so you’re prepared for any project.
Embroidery Stitches for Beginners
Once you’ve gathered your materials, it’s time to dive into the fun part – the stitching. There are countless embroidery stitches to learn, but for beginners it’s best to start with a few simple ones. One of the most popular stitches for beginners is the satin stitch which is perfect for creating smooth, shiny surfaces that really stand out.
Then, if you’re looking to add some outlines to curved lines into the design, the stem stitch is the go-to option because it creates flowing lines that look like they are drawn onto the fabric. Furthermore, you have the colonial knot which is a simple yet effective stitch that adds texture and dimension to your embroidery. It’s often used to create small dots or embellishments like flower centres.
Embroidery is a beautiful craft that allows you to create stunning designs with just a few simple tools like thread, fabric and needles. By having the right materials, you can make art. So, grab your needle and thread, start stitching and before you know it you will be a master embroider.