Top Three Favorite Embroidery Stitches

I really do have more than three top embroidery stitches, but this will get me started for now. More favorites are coming

1. Stem stitch
This is my go-to stitch for lines of all sorts - stems, rings, swirls and more. It's simple and relatively quick. I prefer it to back stitch for lines mostly because much more of the thread ends up on the top of the fabric compared to back stitch.

Stem stitch makes a really  nice line and can be stitched either with small, neat stitches for a perfect rope like appearance (no I'm not especially great at making even stitches!)

 Or it can be made with larger, less even stitches for a line with a little more texture.

And stem stitches make a great filling when made in rows. I've done this many times on many projects.

2. Satin stitch
That should really be padded satin stitch because I love the extra texture a little padding adds. In any case, this is definitely my go-to stitch for fillings. I've made it with 1 strand of thread for a very fine appearance.

And I've used all six strands for a chunkier look that has great texture.

There is no one right way to do it. Always do it your way!

I've made projects that are almost exclusively satin stitch.

I just love the stitch!


3. Beads
An embroidery stitch you ask?  Sure, it is. In my stitch samplers I've given many examples of stitches that can have a bead added for interest and sparkle, so a basic bead stitch is simply a straight stitch with a bead attached. Ok! Maybe you didn't need to be convinced, but I do love adding beads to my projects.

They are great as berries.


And they are always terrific eyes for birds and other creatures.

And I do love to add them simple as decoration and texture to my projects!

So that sums up my three favorite stitches and how I like to use them. I do have many more favorite stitches, as I said, and I'll be writing about them very soon. 

For now... Happy stitching!

Ten Things about Embroidery for Beginners to Remember

I have a new list of things I've learned about embroidery!  This list are things for beginners (and all of us too) to embroidery to consider about their new art. Remember it's not just a craft, but an artform and there is much that can be done with it.

1. Embroidery is always an adventure to be enjoyed. Slow down as much as you can, breathe and relax. Take pleasure in the stitches and watching the project develop.

2. No need for expensive supplies! Compared to other mediums, embroidery doesn't require much investment to begin - piece of fabric, some threads, a needle and scissors, and a hoop is handy too. A pencil is sufficient for transferring a design.

3. If your life feels out of control, then pick up your embroidery. Your art is one thing you have full control over. You get to decide everything about how it turns out.

4. The great thing about embroidery is that it's so tactile. Textures you can actually feel not just see. Learn to use them to create interest in your work.

5. New friends! Look around online and maybe in your local area for others who have the same hobby or even a related one. Stitchers are super nice and extremely supportive people. Reach out whenever you can and enjoy the companionship of like-minded people.

6. So much to learn, so many styles and techniques to try. You can satisfy your thirst to learn and develop your skill and your style. It's great fun to see where this journey leads you. It may surprise you!

7. Practice makes perfect - or sort of perfect. Keep on working and trying and you will improve quickly. Perfection should never be the goal, always just do your best and remember the journey really is the important part.

8. There is no right way - any way is right. Take a chance and do a crazy and wild design that is for fun, or try something traditional and serious. Whichever you like, whichever speaks to you. The important part is to go for it.

9. And some practical advice. Where to get supplies? If you happen to live near a craft store like Michael's or Joanne's you can find many supplies there, such as hoops, needles, fabric, and floss. If you don't, then they internet has many very nice stores which will deliver all these supplies to your door. Pattern transfer is important too. The simplest way is the light box approach which is why it's my preferred method - no need for extra supplies.  Just tape your pattern to glass (a window), then tape the fabric over and trace with a pencil or water soluble pen.

10. Embroidery is what you make of it. There are no rules, no musts, only what feels right to you to do. If you love to paint, it can be included in your embroidery. As can beading, sewing, knitting and even paper crafts too. Just let your imagination fly.

 Be sure to check my first Book of Embroidery for lots of advice about using the stitches and embroidery in general!

Chunky Woven Wheel Stitch Tutorial

I've been spending time lately looking around on Instagram, seeing what people are doing with their embroidery and fiber arts. One thing I'm seeing all over are the woven wheels - chunky style. They look too fun not to try, so I thought I would make a short tutorial about them while I was at it. They are easy and effective.

It's not necessary, but I like to draw a circle with a stencil and mark the middle point, then mark points around the circle for 5 spokes.  If you draw a circle, draw it smaller than you want it to be, and make your spokes extend out beyond the circle, so the circle line is hidden. For a chunky wheel, use all 6 strands of floss on the needle.

Then make 5 straight stitches for the spoke.  Bring up the needle near the center and start weaving around, over and under the spokes. Keep on stitching to fill the spokes.  Don't pull too tightly on the thread as you work.  The layers of floss will slowly build up. 

I've done quite a few rounds, so it builds up the form, makes a nice raised stitch. You can work with long lengths of thread for this, and if your thread runs out, bring it down under the woven wheel, and start a new one.  When you're satisfied, fluff the threads a little.

I've added a few fronds and leaves free-form to make a nice finish. I've used fly stitch, detached chain, french knots, and straight stitches.

A few ideas for variations: Add some french knots or beads to the centers of your wheels, use 2 or three colors when weaving, experiment with the number of times you wind the thread around the wheel to make flatter or chunkier stitches.

Good luck and have fun with these!

Magazine Feature and WIP

The ezine &Stitches has just published their 4th edition and have been kind enough to feature me this month! There are lots of great photos and projects and eye candy in this issue so go check it out!! Just click here to visit their blog with information. A big thanks to Nicole and Carina for their work putting this together.

I'm busy, busy this week working to get my art exhibit project done. The exhibit opens November 3rd and is in Brigham City, Utah. If you just happen to be in the neighborhood, you should definitely stop by. The local quilt guild is hosting this, so there will likely be many quilts, but I know they are taking other types of artwork too, including this embroidery.

Halloween is not the theme!! I will say more about this when the time comes.