Beginner Tips
Welcome to the world of embroidery! I'm glad you're here.
I've put together a few tips and tricks to ease the learning process and reduce the speed bumps along the way.
The Thread & Needle
What thread is used for embroidery?
Hand embroidery typically uses six-strand mouliné embroidery floss. It's made from long staple cotton and is composed of six strands of thread that are easily separated. This allows the user to easily choose how thick they would like their stitches to be.
My patterns call for DMC embroidery floss, as that is the most commonly found thread here in Canada. If you've bought yourself a kit, you'll already have everything you need!
What needles are used for embroidery?
Typically, embroidery needles or chenille needles are used for embroidery. Use a needle with a larger eye and a sharp end, as you'll be piercing the fabric with your needle.
My personal favourite brand is John James. If you've bought yourself a kit, the needles are already supplied for you.
How many strands do I use?
Embroidery thread can be separated into 6 strands - this allows you to adjust the thickness of the thread that you are using. Each pattern will specify how many strands to use. When cutting a length of thread, don't cut it too long - I recommend 20 inches or less. This increases your control over the thread and reduces the occurrence of knots.
How do I separate the strands from each other?
This was one of the biggest headaches for me overall - how do I take separate threads out of 6 that are woven together?!
The trick is to take one out at a time. Hold the end of the floss securely between your thumb and forefinger and then with your other finger, pull one thread directly upwards from the top. The strand should unwind itself as you pull the single strand up and away from the rest of the thread.
Help - I can't thread the needle!
This is the part that I struggle with the most - especially because I wear glasses! Here are my tips:
- Put something white behind the needle: By putting something white behind the needle, you are increasing the contrast, which makes the eye easier to see when you're guiding the thread.
- Cut the thread with sharp scissors: By cutting with sharp scissors, you reduce any fraying of the thread, which could cause headaches when threading the needle.
- Cut the thread at an angle: This makes it easier to guide the thread through the needle.
- Use something to stiffen the thread: Whether it be saliva (don't be grossed out, we've all done it!) or thread conditioner, this is a game changer when trying to thread a needle.
Fabric & Hoops
What fabric should I use?
When embroidering, you'll want to find yourself a fabric with a tight weave. I personally prefer to stitch with 100% cotton (Kona solids are my jam) but everyone has a personal preference!
If you've bought yourself a kit, the fabric is already supplied for you.
Why is there so much fabric in my kit?
If you're working with one of my kits, you have three layers of fabric. When I embroider, I always stitch through two layers of fabric at a time. This provides extra structure for the stitches and keeps the stitches from showing through the back of the fabric. You don’t have to use both layers - but as it’s my preference, I include it in all of my kits. The fun patterned fabric? For backing your piece (see Backing Your Hoop for more information.)
What embroidery hoop should I use?
Faux-wood hoops are great for display, but you will find it doesn't hold your fabric tightly enough for stitching. I use plastic flexi-hoops or beechwood (Elbesee specifically) for stitching, as it keeps the fabric nice and tight throughout the stitching process.
Bamboo? I find it's pretty flimsy and doesn't hold fabric tightly while you stitch. It's still a great cost-effective alternative though, and easy to find at your local craft store.
If you've bought yourself a kit, the embroidery hoop is included!
How do I use the embroidery hoop?
Loosen the screw on your hoop and separate the inner and outer hoop. Place the inner hoop on a flat surface and place the fabric (either one or two layers) on top, centred.
Pinch the fabric between both hoops by pressing the outer hoop on top so it's flush with the fabric and the inner hoop. Tighten the hoop using a screwdriver (or butter knife!) and gently tug the fabric along the outside of the hoop so it is drum-tight.
How tight should my fabric be in the hoop?
Super snug! Pull on the fabric around all sides to make sure it is "drum tight" - sounds like a drum when you tap the fabric. This prevents the fabric from bunching as you stitch. You may need to check your tightness as you work as the fabric will tend to loosen in the hoop as it is handled. Make sure that screw is extra tight, too!
Using water-soluble printed patterns
My kits utilize the use of water-soluble stabilizer. To use these patterns, peel the backing off of your water-soluble stabilizer with the printed pattern.
Centre and place the stabilizer directly onto your fabric (make sure to put the fabric in the hoop first!)
It acts like a sticker, so no ironing is required.
When you're finished your piece, take your fabric out of the hoop and rinse your piece under warm water to dissolve the stabilizer, gently massaging with your fingers to loosen up any stabilizer that might be stuck under the stitches.
Re-stretch your fabric in the hoop while it is still damp and let it dry completely in the hoop. This prevents the fabric and stitches from shrinking and puckering as the piece dries.
Using heat-erasable ink stamped patterns
For our kits that utilize stamps with heat-erasable ink, do not iron your piece prior to stitching!
Doing so will cause you to lose your pattern. Wait until your piece is done, and then either iron your piece or blow-dry it to watch the ink marks disappear!
General
I'm stuck! I need help!
Fret not - I'm happy to help. Anytime you feel stuck or need help troubleshooting, I am happy to help you out. E-mail me at carley@nest-embirdery.ca !
What if I make a mistake?
That's what scissors are for! Don't be afraid to use seam-rippers or small embroidery scissors to cut out an unruly French knot and try again.
Sourcing Supplies
Most craft stores will carry what you need in the needle art section. You can find high quality cloth at most quilting and fabric stores. Personally, I love to hunt for hoops, floss, and fabric at thrift stores!
If you have purchased a kit, you will have everything you already need (except for scissors.) I also carry a small, curated selection of my favourite supplies here.
Take care of your body!
Embroidery is a physical activity. No, I'm not kidding. It can be hard on the wrists, back, and eyes. Make sure you're taking regular breaks to stretch your wrists and give your eyes a break. Try not to embroider with a hunched posture (although it may be tempting) and make sure you have a good light source to prevent eye strain. If you have an embroidery stand, this can be really great to prevent any unnecessary strain on your body.