Embroidery Tips for Beginners

Embroidery might seem intimidating when you’re starting out, but it’s actually not all that hard! We’re passionate embroidery fans here at Sit n’ Sew, and we’ve compiled a list of our top embroidery tips and essential embroidery supplies for beginners that everyone should know.

Getting started is sew much easier than you think!

1. Perfect the art of starting your thread...

This basic step can be the most frustrating if your hands aren’t used to threading a needle. Watch videos to learn anchoring or knotting techniques that keep your thread in place so it doesn’t slip out as soon as you start.

After that, you should practice, practice, practice. You need to perfect at least one of these knotting techniques because embroidery involves starting and stopping thread colors a lot.

Here are some techniques to try:

• Holding Stitch
• Waste Knots
• Pin Stitch

2. ...And ending it, too

You don’t want your project to unravel after all your hard work! Research and try these embroidery tips for finishing off your thread.

• Reverse Holding Stitch
• Thread Weaving (essentially weaving it under a preexisting stitch)

3. Practice basic stitches

Don’t start off right away making intricate floral motifs and sunsets, although it might be tempting. Definitely spend some time learning basic stitch techniques, and practice them again and again until you feel confident in them. These stitches are great for basic household mending, too.

Research and practice the following stitches until you have them down pat:

• Backstitch
• Running stitch
• Couching stitch
• Straight stitch

4. Familiarize yourself with your tools

Embroidery tools are different than your normal sewing fare. Learn what embroidery supplies for beginners you need to make a quality project before you start out.

• Hoops and Frames: These are what you use to hold your work in place and display it when it’s finished.
• Needles: Embroidery needles, or crewel needles, are a good start.
• Thread/Embroidery Floss: Embroidery floss is a thick type of thread made for embroidery. It’s not hard to find online or in craft stores.
• Fabric: Your fabric needs to be able to hold the thread and show it off.
• Scissors: Embroidery scissors are sharp and dainty, perfect for tiny jobs.

5. Don’t be afraid to make a mess

The best embroidery tip we can give you is to stop worrying about mistakes and have fun.

Part of the joy of embroidery is playing around and seeing what you can come up with. That means making lots of silly errors.

If you’ve ever learned to knit or crochet, you know that the first few projects you make before your hands get used to the rhythm look like something your cat coughed out. The same goes for embroidery. Don’t be discouraged if the first few projects are rough. You will improve, and faster than you think!

Shop Sit n’ Sew Fabrics for Embroidery Supplies for Beginners

We’re the perfect place online for embroidery tips. If you’re in the market for some new embroidery supplies, browse our collection of fabrics and embroidery supplies for beginners today.