If you want to give embroidery a try, but have been intimidated by the different supplies and vast number of stitches and tutorials, this is for you. This easy guide is also great for you if you are introducing a friend to stitching and want to make sure you cover the basics.
Learning embroidery doesn’t have to be difficult, and it definitely shouldn’t feel like a huge investment of time and money. In fact, it’s a really easy hobby to jump into. You can pick up special tips, tools and techniques that will improve or enhance your stitching, says Mollie Johanson, Embroidery Expert.
To get started, you only need a simple pattern, and a few things.
Materials
• fabric
• embroidery floss
• embroidery hoop
• needles
• water-soluble pen
• scissors
Stitches/Techniques
• Straight stitch
• Back stitch
• starting/stopping
• finishing tips
Those ten items or techniques are enough to get you started, but here’s a bit more information on each:
Fabric
For your first project, choose a light colored quilting cotton or even weave fabric, such as linen. If buying by the yard, 1/4 yard will be enough for several projects. Don’t use Aida cloth, even though it’s sold alongside embroidery floss (it’s best for cross stitch patterns).
Embroidery floss
Select a few colors of cotton embroidery floss. Use floss designed for craft projects (such as friendship bracelets), as it will be frustrating to work with.
Embroidery Hoop
There are many styles of embroidery hoops available, but all you need to get started is a basic wooden or plastic hoop. A 6-inch hoop will serve you well on a variety of projects.
Needles
Like hoops, there are many kinds of embroidery needles out there. Any sharp needle with an eye large enough to thread embroidery floss through will work. However, the easiest thing is to choose a pack of different sizes of sharp needles labeled for embroidery.
Water-Soluble Pen
Depending on your project, there are a few ways to transfer a pattern to your fabric, but tracing is the simplest. A regular pencil will work, but to ensure that you don’t leave any stray markings, use a water-soluble pen.
Scissors
There are scissors made for different tasks in embroidery, but before you buy anything fancy, it’s okay to use any scissors you have around. Just be sure that they will cut the floss easily so the ends aren’t frayed.
Straight Stitch
This simple stitch is so basic you probably already know how to do it without even learning it. But making short straight lines is something you will do a lot as you embroider.
Back Stitch
For doing any kind of outlining, back stitch will work and it’s so easy. Focus on making each stitch the same length and you’ll have something that looks really great!
Starting/Stopping
If you want to learn the best way to start and stop, there are some special techniques you can follow. But it’s also okay to start and end with a knot.
Finishing Tips
When you are done stitching, your embroidery may need to be rinsed or soaked to remove markings. This also helps remove wrinkles. When it comes out of the water, gently press away excess water with a towel. Then place the embroidery on a folded towel and press from the back with an iron.
Start Stitching
You are now ready to get stitching! With just a bit of practice, you’ll be feeling confident and ready to move from simple patterns to more complex. And once you’ve mastered a couple stitches, you can learn a few more, such as French knots and detached chain stitch.
