Free Stitchery Pattern and Tutorial

Here is a free stitchery pattern and "how to" tutorial for you to enjoy.The pattern for this project can be accessed by clicking the link below.
Click here for your free stitchery pattern "Bee amongst the Daisies"

Stitchery Pattern -Step One

Iron your background fabric. It is best to choose a light coloured, closely woven fabric such as Homespun or Calico for this project.

Transfer your pattern onto the right side of the fabric (if it takes more than a minute to work out which is the right side, then it doesn't matter!)

Use a fine tipped water soluble marker and a good light source. A well lit window will do. Include all the pattern markings including the outer border which is the finished size of the design. You will notice that I have traced lightly. Being too heavy handed will make removing your markings more difficult. You could also use a sharp lead pencil, although pencil can be harder to remove as well. And I should also mention that I do not recommend a permanent Pigma pen for obvious reasons!

Click here for more information about transferring stitchery designs.

Stitchery Pattern - Step Two

For working the hand embroidery stitches I highly recommend using an embroidery hoop and a number 9 or 10 Crewel needle. The hoop will help to keep your stitches an even tension. Choose  a small hoop, my favorite is about 6" or 15cm in diameter.  Click here to read more about embroidery hoops.

A fine needle is also important and will help to achieve a quality result. A crewel needle is designed for use with multiple strands of thread and will make threading much easier.Click here to read more about embroidery needles

I have used a variegated red DMC thread for this stitchery project, although it would look great in other colour combinations. Click here to read more about threads for embroidery.

Stitchery Pattern - Step Three

Now that you have the correct equipment it is time to start working the hand embroidery stitches. This stitchery project is made up of 5 basic embroidery stitches.

Straight stitch, Back stitch, Running stitch, Lazy Daisy stitch and French knots.

To help you with these embroidery stitches I have put together a video demonstration of each stitch. There is also a video to show you how to start your embroidery without having to use a knot, and there are no loose ends to worry about either.Click here to view the embroidery stitches.

Stitchery Pattern - Step Four

Once your stitchery is complete, remove any markings with cold water.

Press your stitchery face down into a towel. This is important so as not to squash your embroidery stitches flat.

Trim back the panel to the desired size. Your stitchery is now ready to make into a small wall hanging or to incorporate into a cushion, bag or quilt.

Click here to get a copy of the free stitchery pattern for this tutorial 

Hope you have enjoyed this free stitchery project.

Warmly Lenna

www.stitchingcow.com