Quilting Daze

Embroidery Tutorial

I've been asked questions via e-mail regarding my embroidery. I'm definitely not an expert but I thought I'd share what works for ME.

The following pictures will explain a little better: (the explanations are under each picture)

1. I prefer to use a spring hoop because I find that my fabric is nice and taut and doesn't get loose. I lay the traced design on the outer ring of the hoop and insert the spring. And, I like to put the handles at the top in the 12 o'clock position

There is no right or wrong way to use this hoop it just happens to be what works for me and I've done it this way for over 20 years. :-)

You may also notice that I trace with a mechanical pencil - again a personal preference.

2. I like to do my embroidery with two strands of embroidery floss but I don't like to have knots on the back of my work. So, I strip one strand of floss - twice the length I think I will need - fold it in half - thread the two ends through the eye of the needle leaving the loop on the end of the length.

Bear in mind that purists will poo-poo this method because floss and/or thread does have a nap and now you've got opposing strands. I'm not a purist so it's all good. :-)

3. To take my first stitch I bring up my needle from the back of my traced design.

4. To complete the stitch I go down and then put my needle through the loop in the floss.

4a. Another view of my needle going through the loop of floss.

5. The back of my work with the first stitch being locked into place. I don't like to use anything on the back of my embroidery work (i.e. fusible, batting or muslin) . This is just a personal preference.
6. The loop method will not work with variegated threads unless you want a blended or tweedy look.

I strip two strands of embroidery floss, thread my needle, take my needle down from the top of my work, away from the traced design, keeping a length of the threads on the top (long enough to thread my needle later and weave the threads through stitches on the back) You can also make a knot at the end of the two strands and do the same thing thereby parking your threads off to the side.

6a. A view of my thumb holding the two strands of floss while I take my first couple of stitches.


I hope this tutorial is clear and answers some of the questions you may have about what works for Me. Please pardon the condition of my hands - I live in Arizona (it's a dry heat but it's also a dry cold)


As always, thank you for stopping by to visit - please come again very soon.


In Friendship!