For instructions on individual stitches, please visit our free "how-to" section featuring illustrated directions for basic embroidery techniques.
Always wash your hands before handling embroidery fabric or threads, and repeat often during a period of stitching to prevent soiling fabric. Do not use hand lotion.
Hem or overcast the edges of the fabric. Transfer the full-size design onto the fabric. Place the prepared fabric into the embroidery hoop; pull the fabric until taut and the grain of the fabric is straight; tighten the hoop.
Cut the floss into 14" lenghts. Separate the floss into six single strands of thread, then put 2 strands together and thread into the needle. All embroidery stitches in this design have been worked with 2 strands (threads) of floss.
Begin working by taking a tiny backstitch or two in the area or on the line that will be covered by the stitching with this color. Work with a smooth and even tension to avoid puckers or loose strands of stitches. Keep thread untangled while stitching by letting the needle hang so that the thread will unwind. End thread that begins to look worn or frayed. End a thread by securing with a tiny backstitch in the embroidered threads on the wrong side.
If you see an error or are displeased with an area of stitching, use the blunt end of the needle to remove stitches, one by one. Do not re-use the thread except to secure it on the wrong side of the fabric.
Keep the back of the embroidery smooth and neat so that the fabric will lay flat when finished and to prevent shadowing of threads. Do not use knots.
Remove the fabric from the hoop when not stitching to prevent hoop marks.
Launder finished embroidery by hand in warm water with a mild detergent. Gently dip and squeeze the project in the detergent solution. Do not wring. Rinse in warm water until the water is clear. Roll the project briefly in a towel to absrob the excess moisture. Lay the project out flat and allow to dry partially. Never leave embroidery rolled in a damp towel or lying directly in the sun.
Place damp project wrong side up on a padded ironing board. Place a lightweight cotton cloth over the stitched areas if desired. Lightly press the project using a moderately hot, dry iron.
Finish as desired into a pillow or picture. |