Love Embroidery Issue 26 2022

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L O V E in every stitch

200
mood-boosting
shades

Shop Paintbox Crafts Stranded Cotton exclusively at lovecrafts.com

FREE delivery Try them today CRAFTLOVE


on orders over £25 with 15% OFF
*terms & conditions apply
Welcome

FRESH IDEAS WITH THREAD

There’s something to be said for painting with


thread; all of the creativity, none of the mess
– unless you count a few tangled threads, of
course! That intrinsic link between embroidery
and painting is something we’re fully embracing
this issue. So whether you are into broad, dense
/20%01/,("0)&("1%,0"&+,2/ ,3"/01/,/Ɯ+"
line art and delicate water colours (as in Shikira
Alleyne’s summery shorts shown here), we’ve got
plenty of painterly projects to bring out your inner
/1&01ćǽ2/+1%"-$"1,Ɯ+!6,2/+"511%/"!
-&+1&+$-/,'" 1Ǿ+!1%"+Ɯ+!6,2/0")#.2&"1
spot where you can enjoy stitching every detail.

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 3


Get back to basics, paint
with thr ead, and more

Contents ISSUE TWENTY SIX

14

11
49 Projects
11 FLORAL PENNANT 42 ALPHABET SAMPLERS
Jessie Doe shows you how to stitch and Make beautiful cross stitch lettering using
assemble a gorgeous spring banner ć)Ć+"""//"ȉ0Ɲ,/) %/10

14 SUMMER HOUSE 49 MERIT BADGES


Step into Vanyll Noslen’s dreamy garden Sew some positivity with Liz Stiglets’ trio
and learn how to paint with thread ,# /ƞȒ&+0-&/"!-1 %"0

26 SHORTS UPDATE 52 TEA HOOPS


!!%&(&/))"6+"ȉ0-/"116Ɲ,/)*,1&# &+16,2/,4+%,,-0+!01&1 %1%/""1"Ȓ
(PåRLGHU\LVIèHYHU\RQH to your summer wardrobe inspired text designs with Natalie Gaynor

At Love Embroidery, we want inclusivity to be


at the heart of what we do. We’re committed 30 GARDEN WALL ART 55 DAISY BRACELET
1, /"1&+$ ,+1"+11%1/"Ɲ" 10+! ")"/1"0 Follow Arounna Khounnoraj’s tutorial to Embroider on felt to make Lucy Peltier’s dainty
the diversity of the stitching community. decorate a canvas with elegant stitches Ɲ,/)/ ")"1&+04""1-01")0%!"0
Embroidery is for everyone, regardless of
ethnicity, age, size, ability, sexual orientation or 34 MINI RUG 60 PLAY CUBE
gender identity. We have begun work on a plan
to drive meaningful change, but we know it’s a Lose yourself in Kseniia Guseva’s 1&1 %2-*,!"/+Ǿ4"1%"/Ȓ1%"*"!1,6
mesmorising design, complete with fringing for little ones with your sewing machine
work in progress. We want to listen to you, our
readers. Join the conversation on Instagram
@loveembroiderymagazine or get in touch at
39 SKILLS WORKSHOP 62 GINKGO BANNER
[email protected] Customise your clothing with Amy Burt’s 0" ")"+0% /,ƞȉ0 %& "*/,&!"/6
expert guide to Eyelet Embroidery machine motif for banners, tees and more

4 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


52
34 60

Subscribe
Welcome!
today! 42
Never miss an issue,
see p24

Hello, stitchers and hello, sunshine! Join us


as we draw inspiration from our gardens,

26 balconies and local parks this month


1,"*/,&!"/012++&+$//6,#Ɲ,/)
designs, from Jessie Doe’s sweet banner,
to a chic set of cross stitch samplers, and
a pair of daisy chain bracelets. We’ve also
Regulars got an incredible canvas project for you
to try your hand at by the super-talented,
07 WE LOVE… 72 TEMPLATES Arounna Khounnoraj and, of course, an
ah-mazing cover star hoop by Vanyll Noslen
Goodies to buy, books to read, places to go, Find all the templates you need to to lose yourself in. This dreamy design has
and other stitching delights we can’t resist complete the projects in this issue got us wanting to take our stitching outside.
We hope you love it as much as we do!
22 DESIGNER PROFILE 81 NEXT ISSUE +!#,/0,*"1%&+$&1!&ƛ"/"+1Ǿ4"
have a clever tutorial by Kseniia Guseva
Designer Niamh Wimperis talks about A sneak preview of the exciting projects,
launching her buisness during a pandemic !"0&$+"/0+!$&ƞ ,*&+$+"51*,+1% (aka Faimyxstitch) on page 34, in which
you’ll learn how to make a mini faux rug
26 SUBSCRIBE TODAY 82 MY STYLE complete with fringing. Enjoy!

Access your Love Embroidery collection Designer and maker Lara Sparks shares the
wherever you are with a digital subscription inspiration behind her freemotion pieces

64 ESSENTIALS
Nikki Morgan, Editor
Your guide to all the materials, techniques
and embroidery stitches you need to know

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 5


since 1877

Tasty
Experience the world of ZWEIGART® premium fabrics
ǁŝƚŚ Ă ƵŶŝƋƵĞ ƐĞůĞĐƟŽŶ ŽĨ ƉůĂŝŶ ĂŶĚ ƉƌŝŶƚĞĚ /
ĞǀĞŶǁĞĂǀĞ ĐĂŶǀĂƐ ĂŶĚ ůŝŶĞŶ ǁĞĂǀĞƐ ůů ĨĂďƌŝĐƐ
ŐƵĂƌĂŶƚĞĞďĞƐƚƌĞƐƵůƚƐĨŽƌĚŝīĞƌĞŶƚŬŝŶĚƐŽĨĞŵďƌŽŝĚĞƌLJ
ƚĞĐŚŶŝƋƵĞƐ ŚŽŽƐĞ LJŽƵƌ ĨĂǀŽƌŝƚĞ ĨĂďƌŝĐƐ ŽĨ ƚŚŝƐ ůŽǀĞůLJ
color world at www.zweigart.de/downloads

PREMIUM NEEDLEWORK FABRICS


100 % MADE IN GERMANY

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For stockists contact:


>ĂŬĞƐŝĚĞEĞĞĚůĞĐƌĂŌ/ůĂŬĞƐŝĚĞŶĞĞĚůĞĐƌĂŌĐŽƵŬ
tŝůůŽǁ&ĂďƌŝĐƐ/ǁǁǁǁŝůůŽǁĨĂďƌŝĐƐĐŽŵ
,ĞƌŝƚĂŐĞƌĂŌƐ/dĞů!Ϭϭ$$%ϱϳϱϮϱϲ
tŽŽůǁĂƌĞŚŽƵƐĞ/ǁŽŽůǁĂƌĞŚŽƵƐĞĐŽƵŬ
^ƟƚĐŚƚĂƐƟĐ/ǁǁǁƐƟƚĐŚƚĂƐƟĐĐŽŵ
IDEAS
INSPIRATION
FASHION
PATTERNS
KITS

Dreamy blooms
Clear your schedules, Celeste Johnston
(aka @LemonMadeShop) is about to drop
a new pattern, and it’s a beauty! Texas
&)!Ɲ,4"/0Ǿ4%& %0%,2)!"3&))"1,26
by the time you’re reading this, is jam-packed
with beautiful blooms for you to stitch and is
an excellent excuse to stock up on some new,
summery threads. It’s just the kind of project we
)&("1,2+4&+!4&1%,+)*6"3"+&+$Ǿ4&1%
a glass of wine or homemade cordial to hand.
www.lemonmadeshop.etsy.com

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 7


LOSE YOURSELF
IN RIA PARAMITA’S
TACTILE STITCHING

We love seeing what


other embroiderers are
VWLWFKLQJDQGWKDQNV
to the internet (and
JRRGÙRO,QVWDJUDP 
ZHFDQQRZFDWFKXS
ZLWKPDNHUVIURPDOO
over the globe. One of
RXUPRVWIDYHDFFRXQWV
WRVFUROOWKURXJKLV
Creative shimmer 5LD3DUDPLWDÚV×DQ From the hive
,QGRQHVLDQHPEURLGHU\
Essex-based embroidery artist, Cecilia Jayi has a
DUWLVWOLYLQJLQ7RN\R
keen eye for colour and a passion for stitching with -DSDQ×ZKRFUHDWHVWKH Anything which reduces the
beads. Cecilia hopes to encourage others to pick PRVWGHOLFLRXVO\WDFWLOH QXPEHURINQRWVLQRXUĂRVVLV
up ‘needle and bead’ with her curated stash boxes, and varied designs. a win in our book, so imagine our delight
)URPĂRZHUVWRSHRSOH when we spotted these heart-shaped tins
4%& %/"0"!,+0-" &Ɯ  ,),2/0+!1%"*"0ǽ
The Blossom Box is next on our to-stitch list and DQGSHWVVPRRWKVDWLQ RIEHHVZD[E\-HQ+RJJIURPVHULHVāYH
VWLWFKWRVWXPSZRUN of The Sewing Bee. Simply run your thread
contains everything you need to make the design we’re in love! Follow Ria RYHUWKHZD[EHIRUHVWLWFKLQJWRKHOSNHHS
shown, including sparkly beads, sequins and more! YLD#BULDSDUDPLWDB it smooth and strong. Genius!
www.celiajayi.com and see for yourself. www.jenhogg.co.uk

Editor
For all the fans of
*UD\VRQ3HUU\LQWKH
URRP RIZKLFKZHÚUH
VXUHWKHUHDUHPDQ\ 
WKLVSRUWUDLWRIKLV
IHPDOHDOWHUHJR&ODLUH
ZLOOVXUHO\KDYHFDXJKW Head turner
\RXUH\H7H[WLOHDUWLVW
(PLO\3HDFRFNKDVXVHG We work to the philosophy that everything
needle and thread to is better with embroidery (well it is, isn’t it?),
FDSWXUHWKHMR\FRORXU and while we might not always have time to
DQGHFFHQWULFLW\WKDW
the artist brings to
stitch our own accessories (or clothes), our
the world through his pals over at Oliver Bonas have our backs
FUHDWLRQV$QG(PLO\ÚV with its stunning SS22 range of decoratively
WDSHVW\NLWOHWV\RXSD\ 01&1 %"!4/"0Ǿ&+ )2!&+$1%/"!ȒƜ))"!1""0Ǿ
KRPDJHDWKRPHWRR handbags, dresses and... headbands!
www.woolwarehouse.co.uk www.oliverbonas.com

8 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Stitcher’s
wishlist

You can never have too many


ribbons, especially exquisitely
embroidered trims like this one
from Ann’s Orchard. Shop the full
swoon-worthy collection online.
£1-6 | www.annsorchard.co.uk

Ideal for stitching both at home


and on the go, this smart Needle
Don’t mind us, we’re busy dreaming about all of the Twister from Prym will ensure
VXPPHUHYHQWVZHÚOOEHZHDULQJWKLVĂRZ\0LVV3DWLQD0DWLVVHFDW you always have your favourite
6KLUW'UHVVWR3LFQLFVZHGGLQJV%%4VâLWÚVJRWXVFRYHUHGZLWKDOO 0%/-016,2/Ɯ+$"/1&-0ǽ
LWVEHDXWLIXOGHWDLOVLQFOXGLQJDSLHFUXVWFROODUORQJIULOOHGVOHHYHV £8.49 | www.jaycotts.co.uk
IURQWEXWWRQIDVWHQLQJDQGRIFRXUVHDVWLWFKHGFDWPRWLILQVSLUHGE\
+HQUL0DWLVVHÚVIDPRXVSDLQWLQJÙ7KH'DQFHÚZZZPLVVSDWLQDFRP

Rainbow stitches
Brighten your day (and your
embroidery hoop!) with this
PHVPLULVLQJ5DGLDQFHGHVLJQE\/RYH We like to carry a notebook
From Beth. Sold as a complete kit, it’s with us (you never know when
packed with punchy thread colours inspiration might strike), and this
and plenty of beginner-friendly cute trio by Ruby Star Society also
stitches for a fun, sew-in-the-sun gives us one for our desk, our bag...
kinda project! Needle at the ready? £7 | www.thefabricfox.co.uk
lovefrombeth.com

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 9


We reckon that
picking the colours
and materials for a
project is one of the
very best parts of our
hobby, and we should
know, as we get to do
it every day! But it can
be a little daunting if
you’re running low on
energy or inspiration.
Fresh inspiration Cue our secret weapon
– Studio Flax! Based
As soon as we spotted this Folk Hoop by Wild & QHDURXURIĀFHWKLV
Green at The Stitch Festival, we just knew it was bricks and mortar
destined for our News pages! Its simple appliqué (and online) store
design, featuring felt and thread, has real pulling offers fab threads,
patterns and linens
power and is available to buy now either as a
that never fail to spark
standalone kit or as part of a monthly subscription our imaginations.
box. Head to the website for more details and follow Give it a try!
@wildgreenltd to see what’s coming up next. 444ǽ012!&,Ɲ5ǽ ,ǽ2(
www.wildgreenltd.co.uk

MOOD-BOOSTING
FLORALS
As soon as we see little daisies pushing
XSWKURXJKWKHJUDVVZHÚUHĂRRGHG
with memories from our childhood summers!
'D\VVSHQWPDNLQJĂRZHUFKDLQVSODLWLQJKDLU
building forts from garden furniture, eating ice-
FUHDP,IRQO\ZHFRXOGāQGDZD\WRFDSWXUH
these pretty little blooms and keep them close
to us when we need a boost. Oh wait, we can!
Inspired by SS22 trends, TU by Sainsbury’s has
What better way to showcase your favourite launched a stylish range of embroidered jeans
variegated threads than stitching up this gorgeous new and pinafores featuring lots of dainty daisies for
pattern by FormedFibers? Simply called The Embroiderist, it’s
us to covet, come rain or shine!
a wonderfully minimal – and mindful! – design that you can
444ǽ12 ),1%&+$ǽ0&+02/60ǽ ,ǽ2(
GRZQORDGDQGVHZLQDGD\ZZZIRUPHGĀEHUVHWV\FRP

10 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Sew your
own joy
MAKE JESSIE DOE’S BEAUTIFUL AND UPLIFTING WALL
HANGING USING SOFT, COTTON FABRIC AND
JUST FOUR SIMPLE STITCHES...
MINI MAKE FLORAL WALL HANGING

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Begin by transferring the design from pieces. Using Backstitch in white machine
01
the template onto the centre of one thread, sew around the edge of the banner,
Cotton fabric: 12x16.5cm, white x2 of your fabric pieces, using the outline to leaving a 5mm seam allowance and a small gap
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of work out the positioning on your fabric. We at the top. Clip the corners and bottom point.
black, coral, green and yellow used a heat-erasable pen and a lightbox to Turn the banner right-way out and then
06
5mm dowel rod: 14cm long transfer ours. Then, mount the fabric in your sew the gap closed using your white
Embroidery hoop: 10cm diameter hoop, ensuring it is pulled taut like a drum machine thread and invisible stitch (also
Machine thread: white and the design is positioned centrally. Begin referred to as ladder or slip stitch). Fold the
Basic embroidery kit by working all the stems and leaves in two top 2cm over to the back and then whipstitch
strands of green; using Stem Stitch for the it in place using white machine thread. Lightly
STITCHES USED stems and Satin Stitch for the leaves. press your banner around the edges and then
7KHQZRUNWKHODUJHĂRZHUSHWDOVXVLQJ feed the dowel through the casing. Finally,
02
Backstitch, French Knot, Satin Stitch, Satin Stitch in two strands of coral. tie a length of your black thread to either end
Stem Stitch Now, using French Knots in two strands of the dowel to create the hanging loop.
03
RI\HOORZāOOWKHFHQWUHVRIWKHFRUDO
NOTES ĂRZHUVDQGWKHQZRUNWKHKHDGVRIWKHIRXU
VPDOOHUĂRZHUV6WLOOXVLQJ\HOORZDGGWKH
Find the template on p74. scattered stars using Backstitch. JESSIE DOE
Continue with Backstitch, but switch to
04
two strands of black to work the ‘Love Jessie is an embroidery
grows here’ text. Keep your stitches nice and artist and designer based
short to create really smooth curves. in Somerset. She loves
2QFH\RXUVWLWFKLQJLVāQLVKHGUHPRYH reading, lattes, podcasts
05
it from your hoop and gently press the and her whippet, Loki.
back with an iron to remove any creases. When she’s not stitching up magic, she can
Then, line up your front and back pieces with be found at the beach, come rain or shine,
right sides together – use the dotted lines with a good book and a hot cup o’ Joe.
of the template on p74 to cut out the banner @jessiedoedesigns

12 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


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COVER STAR SUMMER HOUSE

14 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


SUMMER HOUSE COVER STAR

Secret escape
DELVE INTO YOUR THREAD STASH FOR YOUR
BRIGHTEST SHADES TO CAPTURE THE BEAUTIFUL
BLOOMS SURROUNDING THIS DREAMY RETREAT
Designed by Vanyll Noslen

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 15


COVER STAR SUMMER HOUSE

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS
P
icture stepping out of your door each WZRVWUDQGVRI\HOORZ)RUDUHDOO\VPRRWK
GD\WRāQGZLOGĂRZHUVDQGDJRUJHRXV āQLVKWR\RXU6DWLQ6WLWFKUHJXODUO\OHW\RXU
Linen fabric: 35x35cm, natural FDQRS\WRVWUROOWKURXJK×SXUHEOLVV needle hang down so the strands can unwind
DMC stranded cotton: see Notes 6LQFHZHFDQÚWDFWXDOO\PRYHLQZHÚUHGRLQJ – this will prevent the strands of your thread
DMC metallic stranded thread: WKHQH[WEHVWWKLQJDQGVWLWFKLQJWKLVGUHDP getting twisted as you stitch, which will help
1 skein of gold KRPHXVLQJDEOHQGRI6DWLQ6WLWFKDQG9DULDWHG WKHPWROD\ĂDWWHUDJDLQVWWKHIDEULF
Embroidery hoop: 20cm diameter %DFNVWLWFKWRFUHDWHSDLQWHUO\VWURNHVRIWKUHDG :RUNWKHZLQGRZEOLQGVXVLQJ6DWLQ6WLWFK
04
Highlighter pen: pastel pink 7KHQZHÚUHDGGLQJLQ)UHQFK.QRWVDQG6WUDLJKW LQVL[VWUDQGVRIOLJKWDTXDEOXH7KHQ
Basic embroidery kit 6WLWFKWRFUHDWHWKRVHDOOLPSRUWDQWGHWDLOV using long Straight Stitches in two strands of
DTXDEOXHDGGLQWKHZLQGRZIUDPHV
STITCHES USED 7UDQVIHUWKHGHVLJQIURPWKHWHPSODWH Add the porch lights on either side of the
01 05
RQWRWKHIDEULFXVLQJ\RXUSUHIHUUHG door using Satin Stitch in three strands
French Knot, Satin Stitch, Straight Stitch, PHWKRG:HXVHGDKHDWHUDVDEOHSHQDQG RIPHWDOOLFJROG)LUVWZRUNWKHERWWRPSDUWV
Variated Backstitch DOLJKWER[7KHQPRXQW\RXUVWLWFKLQJLQ\RXU in vertical stitches and then add the top parts
hoop with the design positioned centrally and XVLQJKRUL]RQWDOVWLWFKHVWRFUHDWHGHāQLWLRQ
WKHIDEULFSXOOHGWDXWOLNHDGUXP 8VLQJWKUHHVWUDQGVRISLQNāOOWKHGRRU
06
:HXVHGXQG\HGOLQHQEXWZDQWHGWKH with horizontal Satin Stitch, then change
02
H[SRVHGDUHDRIIDEULFPDNLQJXSWKH WREULJKWSLQNWRāOOWKHDUHDDERYHWKHGRRU
ZLQGRZJODVVWREHSLQN7RDFKLHYHWKLVZH 1RZVZLWFKWRRQHVWUDQGRIEULJKWSLQNWR
DSSOLHGDSDVWHOSLQNKLJKOLJKWHUWRāOOWKH outline the door and its panels with Straight
JODVVWKHQDOORZHGLWWRGU\EHIRUHVWLWFKLQJ Stitches and to create the door handle using
$OWHUQDWLYHO\\RXFRXOGXVHDSLQNIDEULF a single French Knot with two twists.
DVDEDVHDQGVNLSWKLVVWHSHQWLUHO\×MXVW Moving on to the steps leading up to the
07
PDNHVXUH\RXUVWLWFKLQJLVQLFHDQGGHQVHWR GRRUZRUNWKHPXVLQJKRUL]RQWDO6DWLQ
KLGHWKHUHVWRIWKHSLQNIDEULFEHQHDWK\RXU Stitch in two strands of either pink or light
HPEURLGHU\LI\RXGRXVHWKLVRSWLRQ SLQN$OWHUQDWHEHWZHHQWKHWZRFRORXUVVR
6WDUWRIIE\āOOLQJWKHIURQWZDOORIWKH that the fronts of the steps are pink and the
03 tops of the steps are light pink.
house with horizontal Satin Stitch using

16 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


SUMMER HOUSE COVER STAR

07 08 09

10 11 12

08
1H[WāOOLQWKHSRWVRQHLWKHUVLGHRIWKH of the hoop to create a shadow – giving the NOTES
door with horizontal Satin Stitch using illusion of depth to the design. Add in
six strands of orange. Then, use two strands a few scattered stitches of different shades Find the template on p72.
of leaf green and dark leaf green to work the of greens across the whole canopy to create DMC stranded cotton: 1 skein
)UHQFK.QRWVWKDWIRUPWKHSODQWV highlights and lowlights in the scene. each of 210 (purple), 225 (light
:RUNWKHSDWKXVLQJKRUL]RQWDO9DULDWHG )RUWKHDUHDRIZLOGĂRZHUVDWWKHERWWRP pink), 445 (bright yellow), 472
09 13
%DFNVWLWFKLQVL[VWUDQGVRIOLJKWEHLJH RIWKHKRRSRQHLWKHUVLGHRIWKHSDWKāOO (pale green), 601 (magenta), 606
Start at the top, working shorter stitches, and with a scattering of Straight Stitches in six (red), 699 (dark green), 718 (plum),
then increase their length as you work down strands. Begin with your various shades of 725 (orange), 726 (dark yellow),
WKHKRRS$GGLQVRPHDUHDVRIGDUNHUVWLWFKHV JUHHQVEXWWKHQDGGLQVRPHFRQWUDVWLQJ 727 (yellow), 738 (beige), 739
XVLQJVL[VWUDQGVRIEHLJHWRFUHDWHVKDGLQJ FRORXUVVXFKDV\HOORZUHGDQGDTXDEOXHWR (light beige), 743 (apricot), 747
and variation in the path. FUHDWHSRSVRIFRORXUV ĂRZHUV LQWKHJUDVV (light blue), 895 (forest green),
Now, organise all your greens in order <RXZDQWWRZRUNHDFKFRORXURQHDWDWLPH 904 (very dark leaf green), 905
10
IURPOLJKWHVWWRGDUNHVW7KHQEHJLQ layering vertical stitches until the area is full (dark leaf green), 906 (leaf green),
ZRUNLQJ9DULDWHG%DFNVWLWFKWRDGGWKH DQGQRIDEULFLVYLVLEOHWKURXJKWKHVWLWFKHV 907 (bright green), 910 (emerald
canopy directly around the house using six For the area on either side of the path, green), 970 (bright orange), 3326
14
VWUDQGVRIDIHZOLJKWHUVKDGHV([WHQGVRPH WRZDUGVWKHEDFNāOOLWZLWKFOXVWHUVRI (pink), 3340 (salmon), 3761 (aqua
stitches so they overhang the top edge of the French Knots in six strands of varying greens. blue), 3766 (light aqua blue), 3779
KRXVHWRFUHDWHDPRUHQDWXUDOHIIHFW )LOOHDFKVHFWLRQRIĂRZHUVXVLQJ)UHQFK (dusty pink), 3819 (lime green),
15
$V\RXZRUNRXWZDUGVāOOWKHQH[W .QRWVLQVL[VWUDQGVLQOLJKWEOXHEOXH 3833 (bright pink), 3846 (blue).
11
VHFWLRQZLWKDIHZPLGJUHHQVKDGHVVWLOO SXUSOHPDJHQWDSOXPVDOPRQGXVW\SLQN Depending on how much
XVLQJ9DULDWHG%DFNVWLWFKLQVL[VWUDQGV$JDLQ EULJKW\HOORZGDUN\HOORZEULJKWRUDQJH area you choose to cover in each
H[WHQGVRPHRIWKHVWLWFKHVRYHUWKHDUFKRI DSULFRWUHGDQGOLPHJUHHQ<RXFDQFKRRVH shade, you may need more than
OLJKWHUJUHHQVWRPDNHWKHOHDYHVIHHORUJDQLF \RXURZQFRORXUVRUUHIHUWRWKH(PEURLGHU\ one skein of some of the greens.
DQGWRKLGHWKHMRLQRIWKHWZRDUHDV *XLGHRQSIRUFRORXUSODFHPHQWLI\RXÚG
)LQLVKWKHFDQRS\E\āOOLQJWKHUHPDLQLQJ SUHIHU5HPHPEHUQRWWRSODFHVLPLODUFRORXUV
12
areas with your darker green shades, next to each other so that each cluster stands
reserving your darkest green for the very top RXW0L[XS\RXUWHQVLRQDQGQXPEHURIWZLVWV

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 17


COVER STAR SUMMER HOUSE

For a guide to stitches


and techniques
turn to
PAGE 64

13 14 15

16 17 18

TIPS & TRICKS around the needle to vary the size of the
NQRWVFUHDWLQJDQDUUD\RIĂRZHUW\SHV VANYLL NOSLEN
To add some more texture 1RZāOOLQDQ\UHPDLQLQJDUHDVRI
16 Step into the colourful
and variety to the hoop, try EDFNLQJIDEULFZLWKYHUWLFDO9DULDWHG
"5-"/&*"+1&+$4&1%!&ƛ"/"+1 Backstitch in six strands of dark green, leaf world of embroidery
types of threads such as satin green, dark leaf green and very dark leaf artist Vanyll Noslen, the
Ɲ,00,/1-"01/64,,)ǽ JUHHQ7U\WREOHQGRQHJUHHQLQWRWKHRWKHU maker behind Dona Lola.
Work some 8mm transparent WRDYRLGFUHDWLQJEORFNVRIFRORXU Vanyll runs her online
and iridescent sequins into the Add a scattering of French Knots in six embroidery shop from her home in Lille,
17 France, through which she sells a collection
foliage to add shimmering light VWUDQGVDFURVVWKHWRSRIWKHFDQRS\LQ
to your design. VDOPRQGXVN\SLQN\HOORZDQGSLQN7KHQ of beautiful, painting-like PDF patterns
DGGNQRWVLQEULJKW\HOORZDQGUHGDPRQJWKH for stitchers to enjoy at home. For our
ZLOGĂRZHUVRQHLWKHUVLGHRIWKHSDWK cover star this month, she has shared her
7RFRPSOHWHWKHGHVLJQ\RXZDQWWKH popular Yellow House pattern, revealing
18 how she uses Variated Backstitch to create
VWLWFKLQJWROLQHXSZLWKWKHYHU\HGJH
RIWKHKRRS ZKLFKLWFXUUHQWO\ZRQÚWGXHWR her painterly stitches. Her love of colours
WKHLQQHUKRRSSUHYHQWLQJ\RXIURPVWLWFKLQJ +!Ɲ,4"/0Ǿ0,*"1%&+$1%1&0 )"/&+1%&0
ULJKWXSWRWKHHGJH 7RDFKLHYHWKLVPDUN ,11$"$/!"+0 "+"Ǿ&+Ɲ2"+ "0*2 %,#
WKHHGJHRIWKHKRRSRQWKHIDEULFXVLQJDQ her work. All of her pieces are brimming with
HUDVDEOHSHQ7KHQORRVHQWKHVFUHZRIWKH bright shades and many of them feature
KRRSVOLJKWO\DQGUDLVHWKHLQQHUKRRSXSVR ,),2/#2)),,*0,#Ɲ,4"/0ǽ ,4"3"/Ǿ
WKDWLWSURWUXGHVRXW1H[WXVHFRRUGLQDWLQJ thanks to hay fever, Vanyll doesn’t spend
WKUHDGVWRāOOWKHHGJH XSWRWKHOLQH ZLWK nearly as much time out among nature as
9DULDWHG%DFNVWLWFKZRUNLQJWKHVHVWLWFKHV she’d like. But she more than makes up for
DFURVVWKHIDEULFLQVWHDGRISXOOLQJWKURXJKWR that time by imagining gorgeous gardens
WKHEDFN7KHQUHWLJKWHQ\RXUKRRSDVQRUPDO and scenes like this one in her embroidery.
DQGāQLVKWKHEDFNXVLQJ\RXUSUHIHUUHG www.donalolaembroidery.etsy.com
PHWKRGRUWXUQWRSIRURXUJXLGH @d0nalola

18 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


SUMMER HOUSE COVER STAR

Embroidery guide
YELLOW HOUSE CANOPY FLOWERS
Front wall: Satin Stitch, yellow, Canopy: Variated Backstitch, Flowers: French Knot,
2 strands pale green, dark green, forest light blue, blue, purple,
Window blinds: Satin Stitch, green, very dark leaf green, magenta, plum, salmon,
light aqua blue, 6 strands dark leaf green, leaf green, dusty pink, bright yellow,
Window frames: Straight Stitch, bright green, emerald green, dark yellow, bright orange,
aqua blue, 2 strands lime green, 6 strands apricot, red, lime green,
Porch lights: Satin Stitch, +,-6Ɲ,4"/0ǿFrench Knot, 6 strands
metallic gold, 3 strands salmon, dusky pink, yellow, pink,
,,/Ɯ))ǿSatin Stitch, pink, 6 strands
bright pink, 3 strands
Door and panel outlines:
Straight Stitch, bright pink,
1 strand
Door knob: French Knot,
bright pink, 1 strand
Steps: Satin Stitch, pink,
light pink, 2 strands
Pots: Satin Stitch, orange,
6 strands
Pot plants: French
Knot, leaf green, dark
leaf green, 2 strands

GREENERY
Either side of path:
French Knot, pale green,
dark green, forest green,
very dark leaf green,
dark leaf green, leaf green,
bright green, emerald green,
lime green, 6 strands FOREGROUND FLOWERS
&))&+$/,2+!Ɲ,4"/0+!"!$"ǿ &)!Ɲ,4"/0ǿStraight Stitch,
Variated Backstitch, dark green, your choice of greens, yellow,
very dark leaf green, red, aqua blue, 6 strands
dark leaf green, leaf green, PATH !!&1&,+)Ɲ,4"/0ǿ
6 strands Patch: Variated Backstitch, French Knot, bright yellow, red,
beige, light beige, 6 strands 6 strands

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 19


PROFILE

Wimperis
Embroidery
WE TALK TO NIAMH WIMPERIS ABOUT RUNNING
A BUSINESS, DESIGNING UNDER PRESSURE
AND BALANCING CHRONIC PAIN WITH WORK
Words by Louise McCarney
ALL IMAGES © NIAMH WIMPERIS, WWW.WIMPERIS.CO.UK

During lockdown, maker Niamh


Wimperis took the plunge
and started creating her own
subscription embroidery kits
NIAMH WIMPERIS PROFILE

Design ideas come to Niamh


fully formed, waiting for her
to translate them into stitch

S
ometimes, life gives you a little nudge towards need from her without sacrificing the quality of her kits
taking a big leap. And that’s exactly what and designs. To start with, her kits are now bi-monthly,
happened to Niamh Wimperis, the creative halving the frequency. “It wasn’t just that I was struggling
mind and maker behind Wimperis Embroidery. to keep up with designing at that pace,” she explains,
At the beginning of the pandemic Niamh was working “but my customers had kits piling up, especially when we
as a receptionist and embroidering on the side, but life all started going back to work.” A perfectionist at heart,
(as it often does) had other plans and she found herself Niamh has been using the extra time between kits to
faced with a choice; find another job or become her own tweak and tailor each design to her exact liking – ensuring
boss – guess which one she chose! stitchers get the very best of her creativity.
“My friend, Cat of Cat Food Cakes, said to me ‘if I can That’s not all she’s been using the time for though. “I’ve
make subscription cake boxes, you can do the same for been working on smaller, more manageable kits which will
embroidery’ and hey-ho, Wimperis Embroidery Stitch Kits be ideal for complete beginners,” Niamh shares. “They’ll
were born,” says Niamh. After doing the maths, Niamh be quicker to stitch and with fewer supplies in – just the
calculated that to make her new venture work, she’d amounts of threads you need, rather than the full skeins,
need at least 55 subscribers. With heaps of hard work for example – so they’ll be cheaper to buy.” These mini kits,
and planning, she hit that goal within the first month of along with her original, full-sized ones, can be ordered
launching her kits, under the hashtag #WEStitchKits and online but, if everything goes to plan, they’ll also be finding
has never looked back. their way into bricks and mortar stores. “I’ve been working
While Wimperis Embroidery launched to great success on packaging designs for a while now, but once those are
(quickly hitting 300 subscribers) and continues to go sorted, I would love to see my kits in actual shops,” says
from strength to strength with every pattern release, Niamh. “It comes down to me being a perfectionist again;
starting up in the midst of a pandemic has definitely had
its challenges. As people return to work, or readjust while
the world opens back up, there’s simply not as much time
or money for the hobbies found during lockdown. “It’s
“I’ve been working on
been hard,” she says, “watching creatives suffer, and small
businesses like your own struggle. We all try to lift each
smaller, more manageable
other up, but there’s only so much you can do.” kits which will be ideal for
To combat the changing times, Niamh has been
adjusting where she can, listening to what customers complete beginners.”
www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 21
PROFILE NIAMH WIMPERIS

Making a statement about the position


of needlework in the art world, Niamh
created this popular work of art

I want to get the packaging just right to give customers is essential, as she battles with RA & hEDs (rheumatoid
the very best I can.” If you’d love to see Niamh’s kits near arthritis and hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos syndrome). “For
you, drop her a message on Insta (@wimperembroidery) – someone dealing with chronic pain, being your own boss
she’s always on the lookout for potential stockists! is invaluable,” she says. “Being able to turn up late because
Balancing the books and plotting out new product plans today’s not a good day and not having to justify yourself
is a far cry from where all this embroidery business started to someone is so freeing.” Niamh is open and honest about
for Niamh though. “I was working as a waitress,” she says, the complications that come with chronic pain and so her
“and they gave you a two-hour break in the middle of a customers always understand when she needs to slow
split shift.” The time wasn’t enough to go home, but long down and let her body rest. “I always push through the
enough that Niamh needed to find something to keep busy pain for embroidery though,” says Niamh. “It’s my escape.
with. “One day, I randomly went into a craft store nearby I find that having an embroidery stand to hold my project
and just impulsively bought embroidery supplies,” she says. is the biggest help – it makes stitching so much easier.”
“I was hooked immediately and from then on spent most Surrounded by a network of loving and supportive
my breaks stitching away in a nearby café.” people, Niamh balances the good days and the bad with
Nowadays though, Niamh’s in charge of her own hours running Wimperis Embroidery, sometimes enlisting her
and can stitch when she pleases – which on some days fiancé behind the scenes. “He saw me trying out a way of
finishing the back of the hoop once,” says Niamh. “I was
using a cardboard circle with glue and he, a watch maker,
took one look and said ‘there has to be a better solution
than that’.” Well, it turns out there was, and between them
they came up with ‘the gamechanger’ (shown left) – aptly
named after what Niamh’s customers kept calling it. The
wooden disc, included with all of Niamh’s full kits, allows
you to quickly finish the back of your hoop and then hang
the hoop from the hole – which also allows you to easily
remove the disc at a later date if needed.
With new mini kits on the way, and fresh subscription
designs to look forward to, it sounds like it’s going to be
a busy year for Niamh and Wimperis Embroidery. “I’ve
got a stash of kits ready to go out to physical shops (once
they’ve got new packaging, that is),” she says, “and, as
far as future plans go, I’d like to find the time to write an
embroidery book – it’s something I’ve wanted to do for
some time now…” We hope you find that time, Niamh!
Browse Niamh’s full range of designs at www.wimperis.co.uk and
keep up-to-date with new kits on her Insta, @wimperisembroidery.

22 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


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26 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


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www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 27


FASHION SUMMER SHORTS

26 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


SUMMER SHORTS FASHION

Summer
vibes
CUSTOMISE YOUR FAVOURITE GARMENTS
WITH CHIC FLORALS AND PAINTERLY LEAVES
USING BEGINNER-FRIENDLY STITCHES
Designed by Shikira Alleyne

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 27


FASHION SUMMER SHORTS

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Trace the design from the template onto Backstitch. Try to keep your stitches nice and
01
your stabiliser or baking paper. For the short to smoothly follow the curves of some of
Your choice of shorts: light khaki purposes of this project, thinner paper is WKHVWHPV7KHQEHJLQāOOLQJWKHERWWRPVRI
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each better – it’s clearer to see through for tracing WKHPHGLXPVL]HGOHDYHVZLWK/RQJDQG6KRUW
of green, very light green, orange, and easier to tear away. To create a mirrored 6WLWFKVWLOOXVLQJJUHHQ2QO\āOOWKHERWWRPV
peach, pink and light yellow YHUVLRQRIWKHGHVLJQIRUWKHRWKHUSRFNHWĂLS of the leaves as you’ll be adding a lighter shade
Tear-away stabiliser or baking paper the template onto its front and then trace the later on, and leave the larger leaves unworked.
Basic embroidery kit design for a second time. You will need to use Now, still in green, add the petal-like
04
a bright window or lightbox for this. If you’re leaves to the smaller sprigs using Lazy
STITCHES USED tracing over a window, try using a bit of paper 'DLV\6WLWFKHV8VHWKHWLSRI\RXUQHHGOHWR
tape to hold your template and stabiliser reposition the stitches and open them up into
Backstitch, Chain Stitch, French Knot, or baking paper in place as you trace. Once more petal-like shapes, and then work a few
Lazy Daisy Stitch, Long and Short Stitch, you’ve traced the design twice, pin the pieces extra anchor stitches to hold them in place.
Satin Stitch in place on the front pockets of your shorts, 6ZLWFKWRYHU\OLJKWJUHHQDQGāOOLQWKH
05
pinning around the edge of the design. rest of the medium-sized leaves using
NOTES 02
Begin your stitching by working around /RQJDQG6KRUW6WLWFKPDWFKLQJWKHGLUHFWLRQ
WKHFHQWUDOĂRZHUXVLQJ&KDLQ6WLWFK of your previously-worked green stitches.
Find the template on p73. LQSLQN6WDUWZLWKWKHFHQWUDOSHWDODQGWKHQ 1RZIRUWKHODUJHUOHDYHVāOOWKHPZLWK
06
This project is worked without work outwards, breaking and rejoining your /RQJDQG6KRUW6WLWFKXVLQJDPL[RI
an embroidery hoop – see our Tips thread as and when needed to avoid long green and very light green. You can refer to
& Tricks box (opposite) for details. trails across the inside of your shorts. As the step photo above for colour placement
Use two strands of thread stated in our Tips & Tricks box (opposite), RUVLPSO\āOOWKHOHDYHVKRZHYHU\RXZLVK
throughout the design. bring your needle in through the fabric and – there’s no right or wrong way!
back out where your next stitch will begin in 1H[WāOOLQWKHPHGLXPVL]HGĂRZHUV
07
one motion to avoid having to reach inside the XVLQJ6DWLQ6WLWFKLQSHDFK:RUN\RXU
pocket for the needle each stitch. stitches from the tip of each petal down to the
Next, use green to work all the stems of EDVH,I\RXāQG\RXÚUHVWUXJJOLQJWRNHHS\RXU
03
WKHOHDI\VSULJVDQGVPDOOHUĂRZHUVLQ stitches parallel to each other, try working

28 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


SUMMER SHORTS FASHION

Stitch
Guide
Turn to
PAGE 67

07 08 09

10 11 12

TIPS & TRICKS a central stitch down the middle of the petal line and work outwards towards the tips of
āUVWDQGWKHQZRUNLQJRXWZDUGVRQERWKVLGHV the petals, keeping your stitches nice and
Work across the surface of WRāOOWKHUHVWRIWKHSHWDO short to allow for gentle curves in the lines.
your fabric to make stitching 7RāQLVKWKHPHGLXPVL]HGĂRZHUV Now, remove the remaining stabiliser
08 12
the pockets easier. Do this by āOOWKHFHQWUHVRIHDFKRQHZLWK)UHQFK RUEDNLQJSDSHU8VHDSDLURIWZHH]HUV
inserting your needle as you Knots in light yellow. Outline the centre with to help remove any from tricker areas. To
normally would, but immediately DULQJRI)UHQFK.QRWVāUVWDQGWKHQāOOWKH protect the back of your stitching, you might
bringing it back out where your remaining space with a cluster. wish to apply some iron-on interfacing to
next stitch will begin. 1RZZRUNPRUH/D]\'DLV\6WLWFKHV its reverse. To do this, cut two pieces of
09
If your shorts are made from EXWWKLVWLPHIRUWKHVPDOOĂRZHUVXVLQJ interfacing just larger than your stitching and
a thinner, lighter material, try orange. Again, use the tip of your needle and then insert them into the pockets with the
backing your area of stitching a few extra anchor stitches to position the glue side facing the stitching. Iron the inside
with stabiliser to provide extra petals in your preferred way – try mixing up of your shorts, taking care not to press too
structure while embroidering. fuller and narrower petals for a more natural, āUPO\DQGĂDWWHQ\RXUVWLWFKLQJ
Be careful not to stitch wild appearance. Then, add a French Knot in
through the back of the pocket light yellow to the centre of each one and,
– you may wish to insert a piece if preferred, to some of the smaller sprigs.
of card into the pocket to act as Begin to tear away the stabiliser or SHIKIRA ALLEYNE
10
barrier between the layers. baking paper to reveal the design, leaving
WKHFHQWUHRIWKHPDLQĂRZHULQSODFH \RXÚOO Shikira’s love of textiles was
work this section in the next step to add ignited at school, where
VKDGLQJWRWKHĂRZHU <RXPLJKWāQGLWXVHIXO she was given free range to
to make a few careful snips into the stabiliser express herself. Her designs
or paper to help you tear sections away. are all about embracing her
Once you’ve removed the bulk of your Afro–Caribbean heritage, and, passionate
11
stabiliser of baking paper, add some ,210%/&+$%"/),3",# /ƞ0Ǿ0%"/2+0
VKDGLQJWRWKHLQVLGHRIWKHPDLQĂRZHUXVLQJ workshops to encourage others.
%DFNVWLWFKLQSLQN6WDUWDWWKHEDVHRIHDFK www.kreativepursuit.com

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 29


IMAGES © EMBROIDERY BY AROUNNA KHOUNNORAJ, PUBLISHED BY HARDIE GRANT PUBLISHING (WWW.HARDIEGRANT.COM)
Landscape
artist
DON’T BE FOOLED BY ITS STRIKING APPEARANCE, THIS
STUNNING GARDEN-INSPIRED CANVAS IS CREATED
USING JUST FIVE DIFFERENT TYPES OF STITCH
Designed by Arounna Khounnoraj
HOME GARDEN WALL ART

Stitch
Guide
Turn to
PAGE 67

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS To stretch your fabric over your frame, Now, add the arches using Couching
01 04
OD\\RXUIDEULFGRZQĂDWZLWKWKHIUDPH Stitch. Use white Sashiko thread as
Linen fabric: 46x56cm, natural on top – positioning it centrally. Begin stapling your laid thread and hold it in place using six
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of the fabric to the back of frame, starting at the strands of very dark grey-blue. After that, add
black, golden brown, forest green, centre of each side and then working towards the fan-like plants using stripes of Split Stitch
light green, moss green, olive green, WKHFRUQHUV7RāQLVKWKHFRUQHUVJULS\RXU in six strands of rhubarb pink and light yellow
pear green, sage green, light grey, fabric and pull it towards the opposite corner for the fans, and then slanted Satin Stitch in
very dark grey-blue, peach, light WRFUHDWHDĂDSRIIDEULFRQHLWKHUVLGH)ROG golden brown for the stems.
peach, pale pink, rhubarb pink, each of these in towards the central point and Add the large leaves using moss green,
05
terracotta, blue, white, yellow, then staple in place. Trim away the excess forest green, light green and pear green
golden yellow and light yellow fabric to neaten. Now, add the black and white in six strands, working in stripes of Satin
Wooden frame: 25x35cm stems using Couching Stitch. Use six strands Stitch. Then, add the linear leaves using four
Staple gun of black as your laid thread and three of white strands of terracotta in Split Stitch.
Sashiko thread: 1 skein of white to hold it in place. Start at the bottom of each 7KHQDGGWKHDEVWUDFWĂRZHUVXVLQJ
06
Basic embroidery kit stem and loop back on yourself. Alternate the Straight Stitches in six strands of blue.
placement of your white stitches as you come )LQDOO\DGGWKHVWULS\ĂRZHUVXVLQJ6DWLQ
STITCHES USED back down the stems. Stitch in six strands of light peach and peach
Next, use six strands of pale pink and for the petals, and yellow for the centres.
02
Couching Stitch, Satin Stitch, light grey to work the hill-like shapes
Stem Stitch, Split Stitch, Straight Stitch in vertical Satin Stitch.
Moving onto the leafy sprigs below
03 This garden-inspired
NOTES the hill shapes, use six strands of light
wall art is taken from
\HOORZDQGJROGHQ\HOORZWRāOOWKHOHDYHVZLWK
Embroidery by
Find the template on p76. Satin Stitch, using one shade for each half
Arounna Khounnoraj
You can make your own of each leaf. Then, use a mix of moss green,
(£15), from Hardie
wooden frame using 2.5cm-wide ROLYHJUHHQDQGJROGHQEURZQWRāOOWKHRWKHU
Grant Publishing.
strips of wood, nailed and glued leaves with Satin Stitch, adding the stems
www.hardiegrant.com
together at the corners. using Stem Stitch in six strands of sage green.

32 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


15
Free UK delivery

w
% ith
Visit www.foresight-LED.co.uk

co
de
O
Or call Freephone 0800 228 9745

LE

FF
15
22
The Foresight-LED Flexi-Arm Adjustable LED light is
the perfect companion for all your embroidery needs.

This transportable light can easily clip on to


embroidery hoops and other projects, and
the flexi-arms are fully adjustable,
allowing you to position
your light wherever you
need it, whenever you
need it.

With high-quality daylight


output, you don’t need to worry about harsh or dim
lighting. The Flexi-Arm Adjustable LED light gives excellent
colour reproduction and helps reduce eye strain, allowing
you to keep on stitching.

Rechargeable model normally £24.99


AAA Battery model normally £19.99*
*(batteries not included)

Join us online!
Share your
makes and
discover free Find new inspiration
patterns on our for your stitching on
Facebook page our Pinterest boards

See projects up close, go


behind the scenes and win
prizes on Instagram

Say hello, share your stitching and find fresh inspiration!


@loveembroiderymagazine @loveembroiderymag @loveembroiderymagazine
MINI RUG HOOP ART

Miniature
masterpiece
LOSE YOURSELF IN STITCHING AS YOU WORK THIS
BOLD GEOMETRIC DESIGN AND FINISH IT WITH
TACTILE FRINGING TO CREATE A FAUX RUG EFFECT
Designed by Kseniia Guseva

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 35


HOOP ART MINI RUG

Stitch
Guide
Turn to
PAGE 67

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Transfer the design from the template Then, work a single line of Turkey Stitch in
01
onto the fabric using your preferred six strands of cream around the edge of the
Cotton fabric: 18x18cm, white method. Then, mount the fabric in your hoop design. Avoid working through the holes of
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of ZLWKWKHGHVLJQFHQWUDO%HJLQE\āOOLQJLQ other stitches. The length of the loops should
dark blue and burnt orange, 2 skeins the central circle with horizontal Satin Stitch extend beyond the edge of the hoop.
of dark red, 3 skeins of cream XVLQJGDUNUHG7KHQXVHGDUNUHGWRāOOLQWKH At this point, you can either trim your
05
Embroidery hoop: 15cm diameter rest of the star-like shape with Split Stitch. loops with a sharp pair of snips or
Basic embroidery kit Next, working in dark blue, embroider leave them as is. This is also an opportunity
02
the leafy branches using Stem Stitch to shorten them if you’d prefer to see your
STITCHES USED for the stems and Satin Stitch for the leaves. embroidery hoop around the edge.
For the next part, refer to the Embroidery 7RāQLVKWULPWKHIDEULFVRWKDWLWKDV
06
Satin Stitch, Split Stitch, Stem Stitch, Guide opposite for colour placement. Fill in about 5mm excess over the edge of the
Turkey Stitch the rest of the smaller central motifs using inner hoop. Then, glue it to the inner hoop
vertical Satin Stitch. Keep the stitches vertical using a glue gun, or fabric glue and pegs.
NOTES in relevance to the shape, not the hoop. Still
ZRUNLQJLQYHUWLFDO6DWLQ6WLWFKEHJLQāOOLQJLQ
Find the template on p75. the background shapes using dark blue. Start
Use three strands of thread at the centre and continue outwards, working KSENIIA GUSEVA
unless otherwise stated. into the holes of your previous stitches.
Switch to burnt orange and cream and Based in Berlin, Kseniia
03
āOOLQWKHQH[WEDFNJURXQGVKDSHV,I is the embroidery artist
your Satin Stitch is going to be longer than behind @faimyxstitch.
1.5cm, use long Split Stitch instead to avoid Self-taught, she turned to
creating saggy stitches. Again, work into the 1%" /ƞ&+ǗǕǖǛ1,%")-
same holes as your previous stitches. with anxiety. Inspired by architecture, she’s
1RZXVLQJGDUNUHGāOOWKHEDFNJURXQG known for her city landscapes featuring iconic
04
using a mix of Satin Stitch for the shorter landmarks, having created over 135 of them.
areas and Split Stitch for the longer ones. www.faimyxstitch.com

36 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


MINI RUG HOOP ART

Embroidery guide
SMALLER CENTRAL MOTIFS CENTRAL SHAPE
Motifs: Satin Stitch (vertical), Circle: Satin Stitch, dark red,
dark blue, burnt orange, 3 strands
dark red and cream, 3 strands Spikes: Split Stitch, dark red,
3 strands

BRANCHES
Stems: Stem Stitch, dark blue, BACKGROUND
3 strands Shapes: Satin Stitch (vertical),
Leaves: Satin Stitch, Split Stitch (vertical),
dark blue, 3 strands dark blue, burnt orange,
dark red and cream, 3 strands
EDGING Main background: Satin
Fringe: Turkey Stitch, cream, Stitch (vertical), Split Stitch
6 strands (vertical), dark red, 3 strands

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 37


EYELET EMBROIDERY WORKSHOP

Skills
Workshop
Eyelet
Embroidery

AMY BURT

Amy is an
embroidery MEND OLD GARMENTS AND ADD NEW INTEREST TO CLOTHES
artist and
Royal School USING THE CLEVER EYELET TECHNIQUE – A WAY OF MAKING
of Needlework
tutor based in East Sussex.
DECORATIVE, EMBROIDERED HOLES IN YOUR FABRIC
She regularly works for the

E
yelet embroidery is both a beautifully foundation of outlining stitches, around which
fashion industry, was a Senior
decorative technique, and a clever your decorative stitches are added. These
Embroiderer at Ralph & Russo,
way to repair wear and tear in well- can be anything from Satin Stitch to Blanket
+!/" "+1)6-2)&0%"!%"/Ɯ/01
loved garments. It involves working stitches Stitch – as long as the hole is neatly covered.
book, Stitch: Embroidery Makes
around the edge of a hole, either one caused Traditionally used in whitework embroidery,
for Your Home and Wardrobe.
by damage or one purposefully made to we’ve used the technique to add punchy
www.ladybembroidery.co.uk
decorate the fabric. Each eyelet starts with a colours to a denim shirt. Turn over for how.

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 39


WORKSHOP EYELET EMBROIDERY

HOW TO WORK EYELET EMBROIDERY

To work smaller sized Bring the thread up Now, bring your needle Once you’ve worked the
01 02 03 04
eyelets (less than 8mm on the outside of the and thread down through Satin Stitch all the way
wide), start your stitching using Holbein Stitch circle, adjacent the hole, pulling the thread around, pass the needle and
a waste knot. Place the knot WRWKHāUVWVWLWFK ZKLFKLV back against the Holbein Stitch thread through the centre of
on top of the fabric and then actually your Backstitch). to open the eyelet up. Bring the the eyelet and turn your fabric
fasten it in place using two Using a stiletto, which is a needle back up, close to the over. Now, weave your needle
small Backstitches worked next thick, sharp-pointed tool for previous stitch and the Holbein and thread underneath a few of
to each other (they’ll count eyelets, or a thicker tapestry Stitches. Continue in this way, your previous stitches on the
as one stitch). Then, cut off RUGDUQLQJQHHGOHāUPO\SUHVV working a ring of Satin Stitch reverse of the eyelet to secure
the waste knot and continue down through the centre of around the edge, making sure the thread. Now, carefully snip
around the circle outline using the circle. It’s a good idea to to keep an even tension to your thread close to the fabric
Holbein Stitch (also known as support the reverse of the avoid gaps. Use the stiletto to so that it doesn’t show through
Double Running Stitch). fabric to help form the hole. keep the hole open and round. from the front of the eyelet.

40 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


EYELET EMBROIDERY WORKSHOP

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Using the template as a guide, transfer For a Blanket Stitch eyelet, bring the needle
01
the design onto your chosen garment up outside the Holbein Stitch and then when
Your choice of non-stretchy garment using a heat-erasable pen. To make your you pass the needle back down through the
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of own eyelet design, try tracing around small centre, keep a loop of thread at the front.
blue, green, lilac, orange and yellow circular objects of varying sizes (e.g. a pen lid Then, bring the needle back up through the
Embroidery hoop: 13cm diameter or penny) and then adding in some teardrop fabric next to the previous stitch, catching the
Stiletto (or thick tapestry needle) shapes. Make sure your garment isn’t made up loop of thread as you do. Pull the needle and
Basic embroidery kit of a light or stretchy fabric – if it is, you might thread gently away from the eyelet so that the
āQG\RXQHHGWREDFN\RXUVWLWFKLQJDUHDZLWK Blanket Stitch sits on the outer edge. Repeat
STITCHES USED interfacing before you begin to provide extra WKLVDOOWKHDURXQGDQGāQLVKRIIDVEHIRUH
structure and avoid fraying. Now, mount your Now, moving onto the teardrops, start at
Blanket Stitch, Holbein Stitch, 05
stitching area in your hoop to begin. the tips and bring your thread up at the
Running Stitch, Satin Stitch 6WDUWE\ZRUNLQJWKHVPDOOHUH\HOHWVāUVW WLSZKHQ\RXÚYHāQLVKHGWKH+ROEHLQ6WLWFK
02
Leaving the larger ones until later will Then, push the stiletto through the bottom
NOTES help keep your fabric taut. Using one strand of half of the eyelet and make a small vertical
thread, follow the steps on the opposite page snip to create the teardrop shape.
Find the template on p75. to work the smaller eyelets. You can either Now, work Satin Stitch all around
We used a size 10 embroidery
06
use the step photo above as a guide for colour the eyelet as before, making sure the
needle for this project. placement, or choose your own shades. stitches lay at even angles all the way around.
Make sure your transfer pen is Moving onto the larger eyelets, follow the By starting at the tip of the teardrop, this is
fabric safe so the ink doesn’t bleed.
03
same method as for the smaller ones to ZKHUH\RXÚOOāQLVK$QGZKHQ\RXGRPDNH
set up the holes, but instead of using a stiletto, the last stitch a little longer than the previous
snip a small cross in the centre to create four ones to create the appearance of a sharp
ĂDSVRIIDEULF×GRQÚWFXWWRRFORVHWR\RXU point at the top of the teardrop. Secure the
stitches though. Then, use the stiletto to keep thread at the back of your work as before.
WKHH\HOHWRSHQDQGKROGĂDSVRXWRIWKHZD\ Then, add the large central eyelet following
Now, you can work around the edges as step 3 and then working Satin Stitch around
04
before, or you can use Blanket Stitch. the edge instead of Blanket Stitch.

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 41


IMAGES © CROSS STITCH ALPHABETS BY HÉLÈNE LE BERRE, PUBLISHED BY SEARCH PRESS (WWW.SEARCHPRESS.COM)
ALPHABET SAMPLERS CROSS STITCH

Learning
by letter
LEVEL UP YOUR CROSS STITCH TECHNIQUE
WITH A SET OF BEAUTIFUL NATURE-INSPIRED
ALPHABET SAMPLERS AND OUR EXPERT GUIDE
Designed by Hélène Le Berre

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 43


CROSS STITCH ALPHABET SAMPLERS

Stitch
Guide
Turn to
PAGE 67

03

MATERIALS Unlike embroidery, where you transfer useful to tick squares off on the chart as you
01
the design from a template onto the go to help track your progress.
28-count evenweave: at least 10cm fabric, cross stitch is worked from a chart (like Once your Cross Stitches are complete,
03
larger all around than you want your the one opposite). These charts are printed begin adding your Backstitch details
Ɯ+&0%"!-/,'" 11,"Ǿ4%&1" with coloured squares containing symbols, using one strand of thread. Take care to check
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of each one representing a square to be stitched the positioning of these stitches; some are
) (Ǿ!/()2"Ǿ)&$%1)2"Ǿ,/+$"Ǿ on your fabric. For this project, a square on worked through corners of the square and
)&$%1-" %Ǿ-&+(Ǿ!/(-&+(Ǿ/"!+! your evenweave fabric is worked over two others require you to split the square.
light yellow threads of the fabric. Count the number of Now, add the French Knot details using
04
Metallic stranded thread: 1 skein of squares of a colour on the chart and then two strands of thread.
gold Cross Stitch them in position by counting To frame your stitching, cut a piece of
05
*/,&!"/6%,,-ǿǖǕ *!&*"1"/ the squares on the fabric. The keys below strong card just a bit smaller than your
/*",/%+$"/ǿ1,Ɯ16,2/01&1 %&+$ the charts will tell you which shade of thread frame. Lay your stitching facedown with the
Basic embroidery kit corresponds with which symbol. For this card centrally on top. Sew the top and bottom
project, you’ll be working Cross Stitch (shown edges together around the card, and then sew
STITCHES USED as a square), Backstitch (a line) and French the left and right edges together. Pull your
Knots (a dot). Start by preparing your fabric. thread evenly as you go. Then, place your
 (01&1 %Ǿ/,001&1 %Ǿ /"+ %+,1 Do this by folding it in half both ways and stitching in your frame, under the glass.
then unfolding. Where the creases cross is the
NOTES centre and this is where we recommend you
start, both on your fabric and chart. Mount
 %"/"/"+,1"*-)1"0#,/ %"0")"11"/&+$0*-)"/
the centre of your fabric in your hoop and
1%"0"-/,'" 10Ǿ1%"6/"4,/("! -/,'" 10/"1("+#/,*
move it around as you work outwards.
#/,*1%" %/10,+-ǙǚȒǙǛ&+01"!ǽ Cross Stitch Alphabets
Begin by adding your Cross Stitches in
 2/+1,-Ǚǜ#,/,2/$2&!",+ 02 by Hélène Le Berre
two strands of cotton or one strand of
01&1 %&+$4,/!,/-%/0"20&+$ ʐǞǽǞǞ.Ǿ-2)&0%"!
metallic. We recommend working all the
1%"0")-%"1 %/10Ǿ+!#,/ by Search Press.
&URVV6WLWFKHVRIRQHVKDGHāUVWEHIRUH
measuring your fabric. www.searchpress.com
PRYLQJRQWRDQRWKHUVKDGH<RXPLJKWāQGLW

44 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


ALPHABET SAMPLERS CROSS STITCH

Light yellow Gold Light blue Dark blue Red

Black &$%1-" % Pink /(-&+( Orange

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 45


CROSS STITCH ALPHABET SAMPLERS

Light yellow Gold Light blue Dark blue Red

Black Light peach Pink Dark pink Orange

46 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Stitching a word or phrase
If you’re stitching the letters as they appear in the
charts, as a pair of samplers, then you’ll need two
pieces of evenweave fabric measuring 40x50cm
each. If you’re stitching a word or phrase using
individual letters, then sketch out your chosen
GHVLJQRQJUDSKSDSHUāUVW0DNHVXUHWKHUHLV
space between each letter, about two or three
squares. Then, cut around your design, ensuring
there is at least 10cm of spare fabric around
the edge (this is to allow room for framing).
Depending on your chosen design, you might be
able to stitch the whole thing in one large hoop
without the need for repositioning. Otherwise,
you’ll need to move your hoop around as you go.

How to start your cross stitching


The loop method is the neatest way to start
stitching, but can only be done using an even
number of strands. Cut a 50-60cm length of
thread, then fold one strand in half. Thread the
needle with the ends to form a loop, and bring the
needle up through the fabric. As you take it back
down, pass it through the loop and pull to secure.
If you’re using an odd number of strands, come up
through the fabric as normal, but leave a longer
OHQJWKRIWKUHDGDWWKHEDFN:RUN\RXUāUVWIHZ
stitches over this thread length and then snip
DZD\WKHH[FHVVZKHQ\RXÚYHāQLVKHGVWLWFKLQJ

TIPS & TRICKS


To prevent the edges of your fabric from fraying,
cover them with lengths of paper tape or fold them over
and tack them in place. If tacking, remove these stitches
"#,/"#/*&+$6,2/Ɯ+&0%"!-&" "ǽ
 +01"!,#!&0-)6&+$6,2/Ɯ+&0%"!0*-)"/0Ǿ4,/!,/
phrase in a picture frame, you could also use a wooden
4))%+$"/1,0%,4,ƛ6,2/01&1 %&+$ǽ
 #6,2/"+"41, /,0001&1 %Ǿ6,2*6Ɯ+!&1"0&"/
to work this design on 14-count aida fabric instead
because it has a clearer grid structure.
When working blocks of Cross Stitches, you might
Ɯ+!&1.2& ("/1,4,/(%)#,#" %01&1 %Ɯ/01"#,/"
$,&+$ (1,Ɯ+&0%1%",1%"/%)3"0ǽ ,4"3"/Ǿ&#6,2ȉ/"
working lots of spaced-out Cross Stitches, work each
one completely before moving on to the next.
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48 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Stitch club
EMBROIDER A TRIO OF BADGES TO REWARD PALS’
GOOD DEEDS AND CELEBRATE THE BRILLIANT
QUALITIES OF OUR CRAFT COMMUNITY
Designed by Liz Stiglets
QUICK MAKE MERIT BADGES

Stitch
Guide
Turn to
PAGE 67

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Transfer the designs from the templates border using Straight Stitch in yellow and
01
onto the fabric using your preferred then the lettering using Backstitch in mint.
Canvas fabric: 30.5x30.5cm, white method. We used a heat-erasable pen and a For the ‘creativity’ badge, add the
05
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each lightbox, but a brightly-lit window will work scissors using Backstitch in dark pink,
of mint, dark pink, light pink just as well as an alternative. Simply layer your working one Figure of Eight Knot in dark pink
and yellow fabric over the templates and tape both onto IRUWKHVFUHZ7KHQāOOWKHULEERQXVLQJ%ULFN
Embroidery hoop: 23cm diameter the window ready for tracing. Stitch in yellow, and add the line underneath
Basic embroidery kit Mount the fabric in your hoop, making using Running Stitch in mint. Finally, add the
02
sure all three designs are centered. lettering using Backstitch in dark pink.
STITCHES USED For the ‘patience’ badge, work the petals For the borders, refer to the main image
03 06
using Satin Stitch in mint. Then, add light on p49 for colour placement, and work
Backstitch, Brick Stitch, pink Straight Stitches to the centre. Next, them using Satin Stitch in all six strands of
Figure of Eight Knot, Satin Stitch, working in Backstitch, sew the hoop in yellow thread. Then, trim around each badge, leaving
Straight Stitch, Running Stitch and the thread in light pink. Add the needle DPPERUGHUDOODURXQGWRāQLVK
by coming up through the fabric just inside
NOTES the hoop, using mint, passing your needle
underneath one of the thread’s Backstitch
Find the templates on p73. and then coming back down through the LIZ STIGLETS
Use two strands of thread fabric where you came out. Add the mint dots
unless otherwise stated. using Figure of Eight Knots, and the crosses With a background in
To turn these motifs into using dark pink, working all the right-leaning illustration and design,
iron-on patches instead of sew-on, 6WUDLJKW6WLWFKHVāUVWDQGWKHQFRPLQJEDFN combined with a passion
simply back them with double- to add the left-leaning ones. Finally, add the for the vibrant and the
sided iron-on patch adhesive. lettering using Backstitch in yellow. tactile, it’s no surprise
For the ‘kindness’ badge, work the hand that Liz found her way to embroidery.
04
in small Backstitches using mint. Then, She designs kits, and shares tools and
using Satin Stitch, add the heart in dark pink resources to help others develop their skills.
and the rays in light pink. Add the decorative www.cozybluehandmade.com

50 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


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times as the agents are operating out of Philadelphia.
Time for
a brew
ONLY THE MOST KITSCH FABRICS WILL
DO FOR THIS TRIO OF TEA-THEMED
LETTERING HOOPS, ALL BASED ON
POPULAR NORTHERN SAYINGS
Designed by Natalie Gaynor
BEGINNER TEA HOOPS

Stitch
Guide
Turn to
PAGE 67

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Transfer the three text designs from Using two strands of blue-grey, add one
01 05
the templates onto your chosen fabrics āQDOURZRI%DFNVWLWFKWRWKHULJKWHGJHV
Cotton fabric: 20x20cm, patterned x3 using your preferred method. We used a heat- of the letters to create a shaded effect.
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of erasable pen and a lightbox. Then, mount each 7RāQLVKUHPRYH\RXUVWLWFKLQJIURP
06
blue, blue-grey, dark grey and teal piece of fabric in one of your hoops, ensuring the hoops and set aside. Using very light
Embroidery hoop: 15cm diameter x3 the surface is taut like a drum. Beginning with blue, pink and light yellow, paint one side of
Acrylic paint: very light blue, pink the ‘Make us a brew’ design, work the text each of your hoops, painting just the outer
and light yellow using Reverse Chain Stitch in blue-grey. Keep hoop. Leave them to dry fully, turn over and
Basic embroidery kit your stitches nice and small to create smooth paint the other sides, avoiding the screws
curves in the letters. as you do. Allow them to dry fully again and
STITCHES USED Moving onto the ‘No tea without cake’ then, using the main image on p52 as a guide,
02
design, you’ll be working the text using remount your stitching, ensuring the designs
Backstitch, Brick Stitch, Reverse Chain Whipped Backstitch in a combination of dark DUHFHQWUDO)RURXUJXLGHRQKRZWRāQLVKWKH
Stitch, Whipped Backstitch grey and teal. Start by Backstitching all the backs of the hoops, turn to p67.
letters using dark grey, working two parallel
lines of Backstitch for each letter. Keep your
NOTES
stitches small enough to create smooth
Find the templates on p77. curves but large enough to be able to pass the NATALIE GAYNOR
Use all six strands of thread needle under in the next step.
unless otherwise stated. Now, use teal to turn your Backstitch Growing up surrounded by
03 textiles and with a degree
 #6,2 +ȉ1Ɯ+!0%!"0,# into Whipped Backstitch, weaving your
acrylic paint light enough, simply thread under both rows of Backstitch. in the subject, Natalie’s
mix standard shades with white. For the ‘Put kettle on’ design, work love of embroidery
04 inspired her to set up
the lettering using Brick Stitch and
Backstitch in blue. Use three rows of Brick Natalie Gaynor Designs, through which she
Stitch for the wider parts of the letters (the sells bespoke stitched art, embroidery kits
downward strokes), and Backstitch for the and hand embroidery workshops.
thinner parts (the upward strokes). www.nataliegaynordesigns.co.uk

54 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


DAISY CHAIN BRACELET ACCESSORY

Pretty little things


EMBROIDER ON FELT TO MAKE DAINTY DAISY
CHAIN BRACELETS FOR SUMMER – IT’S EASY TO
CUSTOMISE THE COLOURS TO YOUR FAVES
Designed by Lucy Peltier

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 55


ACCESSORY DAISY CHAIN BRACELET

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Begin by transferring the design from the manufacturer’s instructions on the
01
the template onto your water-soluble packet as you do). Gently rub the stabiliser
Wool felt: 15.5x2cm x2, 20x20cm, stabilser using a water-erasable pen (or, at away while it’s in the water and use a small
cream and light pink least, an erasable pen that’s ink won’t bleed pair of tweezers or a toothpick to shift any
Stranded cotton: 1 skein each of when soaked in water). Then, peel the backing small amounts stuck on the felt. Remove the
cream, pink and yellow from the stabiliser and stick it down centrally IHOWIURPWKHZDWHUDQGOHDYHLWĂDWWRGU\
Embroidery hoop: 13cm diameter on the square piece of cream felt. Now, mount completely. Once dry, carefully cut around
Adhesive water-soluble stabiliser: your felt in your hoop. Take care to pull the each individual daisy, leaving a 1mm border
12x12cm x2 felt taut, but don’t overstretch it as this will RIIHOWDURXQGHDFKĂRZHU
Fabric glue GLVWRUW\RXUāQLVKHGHPEURLGHU\ Next, dab small amounts of glue onto the
04
Silver-plated crimp-end fasteners: Start by working all of the daisy petals EDFNRIWKHāUVWGDLV\SODFLQJWKHJOXH
02
20mm x4 using Satin Stitch in four strands of around the base of the petals and avoiding
Silver-plated extension chains: FUHDP:RUNWKHāUVWVWLWFKRIHDFKSHWDOXS the middle circle. Place the daisy right-side
50mm x2 its middle, from the base to the tip. Then, up, about halfway along one of the 15.5x2cm
Silver-plated jump rings: 6mm x4 continue to add stitches either side of this pieces of pink felt. Then, glue the backs of the
Silver-plated trigger clasps: 6mm x2 central one. Working in this way will help to remaining daisies in the same way and place
Flat-nosed jewellery pliers keep your stitches parallel to one another and WKHPHLWKHUVLGHRIWKHāUVWGDLV\ZLWKDVOLJKW
Basic embroidery kit WKHUHIRUHFUHDWHDQHDWHUāQLVK$QRWKHUWULFN overlap as you add more. Leave the glue to
for smoother Satin Stitch is to make sure you fully dry before continuing.
STITCHES USED pull your thread all the way through the felt Now, work French Knots in four strands
05
before you start your next stitch – this helps RI\HOORZWRāOOWKHFHQWUHVRIHDFKGDLV\
French Knot, Satin Stitch, Running Stitch to keep a more even tension. Use two or three twists for each knot. Start
Once all the daisy petals have been by creating the outline of the central circle
03
NOTES stitched, remove the felt square from XVLQJVHYHQ)UHQFK.QRWV7KHQāOOWKHFHQWUH
your hoop. Trim off any excess water-soluble of the circle in using a single French Knot
Find the template on p79. stabiliser from around the daisies. Then, ZRUNHGLQWKHPLGGOH$VZHOODVFUHDWLQJWKH
soak the whole piece of felt in water to centre of the daisy, this will ensure that it is
remove the remaining stabiliser (following āUPO\VHFXUHGWRWKHSLQNIHOWEHQHDWK

56 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


DAISY CHAIN BRACELET ACCESSORY

Stitch
Guide
Turn to
PAGE 67

07

08

TIPS & TRICKS 06


2QFH\RXÚYHāOOHGDOO\RXUGDLV\FHQWUHV pulling the jump ring open with your pliers
with French Knots, turn your bracelet and then inserting it into the loop of the
This is a great project for over so that it’s facedown. Coat the back of trigger clasp and the loop of the crimp-end
using up spare threads, scraps of your bracelet with fabric glue and then stick fastener. Then, carefully close the jump ring
felt and water-soluble stabiliser. it onto the second piece of 15.5x2cm pink felt. again using your pliers, taking care not to
Instead of using large squares $JDLQOHDYHWKLVWRGU\IXOO\EHIRUHFRQWLQXLQJ bend it out of its circular shape. Repeat this
of felt and stabiliser, individual Don’t be tempted to press the bracelet process for the other end of your bracelet to
daisies can be transferred and underneath something (like a book) to secure attach your extension chain. To make the pink
stitched on scraps of both as long WKHSLHFHVWRJHWKHUDV\RXÚOOĂDWWHQ\RXU version of the bracelet, repeat steps 1-8, but
as they are big enough. French Knots. You’ll be stitching around the switch the felt colours around and use pink
 ,102/"4%"/"1,Ɯ+!1%"0" edges to secure the pieces together anyway. thread instead of cream for the daisy petals.
jewellery supplies? We bought Once your bracelet is dry again, work short $OWHUQDWLYHO\\RXFDQPL[DQGPDWFK\RXU
ours from The Bead Shop Ltd at Running Stitches in two strands of pink all the thread and felt colours to make a whole set of
www.the-beadshop.co.uk way around the edge, working through both bracelets in your favourite shades.
OD\HUVRIIHOWWRVHFXUHWKHPāUPO\WRJHWKHU
Now, insert one short end of your
07
bracelet into one of the crimp-end
IDVWHQHUVDQGXVH\RXUSDLURIĂDWQRVHG LUCY PELTIER
SOLHUVWRāUPO\SUHVVWKHIDVWHQHULQSODFH
over the felt. You’ll need to press the pliers Lucy creates patterns,
down in several places across the fastener kits and stitched products.
to make sure it’s properly attached. Give the Each of her designs tell
fastener a gentle pull to test how secure it is a story inspired by nature,
and then press again with the pliers if needed. the seasons, and heritage.
Repeat this for the other end of your bracelet. She loves to immerse herself in the beauty of
Now, using your pliers and a jump a forest, a pretty garden, or the countryside.
08
ring, attach a trigger clasp to one of www.lucyludreams.etsy.com
the crimp-end fasteners. Do this by gently @lucyludreams

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 57


Machine
embroidery

H
omemade gifts always go down material before, it’s essentially a sticky
well, especially with mums-to-be mesh which you can use to adhere fabrics
and Louisa Burtonshaw’s modern together – it’s fantastic for appliqué. And
play cube is a great pattern to have up your for our second project, Helen Ashcroft is
sleeve! Inspired by the weather, it comes sharing her pretty machine embroidered
together extra fast with a helping hand from OLQHDUWĂRZHUGHVLJQZKLFK\RXFDQVWLWFK
Bondaweb. If you’ve never used this clever onto pennants, tees, blankets and more.

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 59


MACHINE COLOURFUL PLAY CUBE

Hello, sunshine
INDULGE IN A LITTLE QUIET CRAFTING TIME AND
KEEP LITTLE ONES ENTERTAINED WITH THIS
SWEET WEATHER-THEMED PLAY CUBE
Designed by Louisa Burtonshaw

GETTING STARTED
GETTING STARTED LOUISA BURTONSHAW
Prepare your sewing machine by attaching the stitch length is determined by the speed
a freemotion embroidery or darning foot. at which you stitch – the faster you move Louisa is a full-time
Next, drop the feed dogs – the mechanism your fabric, the longer your stitches will be. embroidery artist,
that grips and pulls fabric through your When machine embroidering, try to work in and pattern and kit
sewing machine. Your sewing machine one continuous line. If you do need to stop, maker, passionate
manual should tell you how to do this, but make sure you lower the foot so you don’t about sustainable
there is usually a lever to pull at the back of have jumps in your stitching. This project is *1"/&)0ǽ%"ȉ0,ƞ"+&+%"/$/!"+
the machine. Start with test fabric to make worked without a hoop due to the small size tending to her veg patch or chickens!
sure the tension is correct and the bottom of the fabric. If you’re using thinner fabric, www.stitchhappy.co.uk
thread doesn’t show though. Remember back it with interfacing for extra structure. @stitchhappystudio
Machine
embroidery

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Begin by ironing stabiliser onto the back your sewing line 1.5cm in from the edge – this
01
of each of your fabric squares. Then, is to allow for other squares to be added with
Cotton fabric: 15x15cm, blush x2, prepare your shapes by tracing each one from a 1.5cm seam allowance. Continue adding the
cinnamon x2, patterned x2 the templates onto your Bondaweb. Iron the side pieces in this way, being precise with
Machine cotton thread: 1 spool each Bondaweb onto the corresponding fabric or your 1.5cm seams to create crisp corners. You
of black and a matching shade for felt using step 2’s photo above as a guide. should end up with a cross shape, with the top
your chosen fabrics Then, cut out the shapes and lay them piece positioned at the centre.
02
Wool felt: green, pink and white on top of their fabric squares, using Fold the cross on the diagonal and,
05
,6012ƛ&+$ the step photo above as a guide. Remove the keeping right sides facing each other,
Medium-weight iron-on stabiliser backing paper of each shape and iron it in sew the side pieces together to create a
Bondaweb place. To make the motifs extra secure, you cube. Make sure you still start and end your
Sewing machine with a standard can machine sew around the edge of each stitching 1.5cm in from the edge and leave
and freemotion or darning foot shape using a matching thread. a 1.5cm seam allowance along the edge. Now,
Basic embroidery kit Prepare your sewing machine for take the bottom piece and, with right sides
03
freemotion embroidery. Then, use an together, stitch three sides together 1.5cm
STITCHES USED erasable pen to draw the facial features before in from the edge. Be careful to move your
sewing over the top of these features using cube around as you stitch, so that you’re only
Machine Straight Stitch black thread – go over each detail a few times. stitching the edges together and not catching
To construct the cube, choose where any of the other fabric in the stitching.
04
NOTES you would like your squares to be
06
Turn your cube right-side out and create
positioned. We used the patterned pieces a point in each of the corners using
Find the templates on p78-79. with no motifs on the top and bottom, and the a knitting needle or similar item. Now, stuff
WARNING: This project motif pieces on the sides. Before you sew each your cube – the more filling you add, the more
contains small parts which may piece together, make sure they’re orientated rigid it will be. If you want a squidgy cube
be a choking hazard for children the correct way around. Take your top piece simply use less filling. Turn the raw seams to
under 3 years. Do not let children and your first side piece and, with right sides the inside and stitch the opening with slip or
play with this toy unattended. facing each other, sew them along one edge ladder stitch, making sure that the stitching
with a 1.5cm seam allowance. Start and end isn’t visible from the outside.

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 61


MACHINE GINKGO PENNANT

Making shapes
EMBRACE MINIMALISM WITH THIS STYLISH LINE
ART PENNANT, STITCHED IN CALMING HUES USING
AN EMBROIDERY MACHINE
Designed by ")"+0% /,ƞ

GETTING STARTED
GETTING STARTED HELEN ASHCROFT
It’s essential that you appropriately stabilise Wash-away, which is used when all traces of
your fabric, to support and strengthen it it need to be removed from the project, such Helen combines
during the stitching process. There are three as when using a sheer fabric, or when thicker hand and machine
main types of stabiliser used: fabrics with a deep pile will need extra embroidery and
Cut-away, which is usually used on stretchy support from the front of the work as well as various mediums
#/& 0+!4&))/"*&+&+-) "&+!"Ɯ+&1")6Ȁ the back while you are working. to create hoop art.
+6"5 "00&0 2146ƞ"/01&1 %&+$ǽ It’s best to practise a new design on scrap Inspired by nature, fashion, cultures
Tear-away, which is usually used on woven #/& "#,/" ,**&11&+$&11,6,2/Ɯ+) and architecture, she creates kits
fabrics such as cotton and will be torn away project to be sure the thread colours will and patterns for her designs.
ƞ"/1%"!"0&$+&04,/("!ǽ work well and the design is the correct size. www.rainbowbobbins.com

62 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Machine
embroidery

01 02 03

04 05 06

MATERIALS Iron your banner on the reverse so it Now, you’re ready to sew the design.
01 04
lays flat. Place your banner in the most Make sure the hanging string is out of
Pre-made pennant: at least 20x26cm appropriately sized frame you have. Using a the way. First, the blue circle will be sewn with
1,Ɯ1ǖǗǽǜ *!"0&$+. heat-erasable pen, mark where the top and a Fill Stitch, then the leaf veins and outline
Machine cotton: 1 spool each of blue bottom (and sides) of your frame come to on with Triple Stitch and Zigzag Stitch, lastly the
and dark grey the banner, to mark out your sewing area. outer circles will be sewn using Triple Stitch.
Embroidery machine and hoop or Remove the banner from the frame, measure Once finished, remove the frame and
05
frame your sewing area and draw a cross in the turn off your machine as you usually
Basic embroidery kit centre. Based on your measurements, you will would. Release the banner from the frame,
now know whether the design fits or whether turn over and tear off the stabiliser from
STITCHES USED you will need to resize it slightly. the reverse. Back on the front of the design,
Cut a length of stabiliser and place it use thread snips or embroidery scissors to
02
Machine Fill Stitch, Machine Triple beneath the banner in the frame. Line up carefully trim away any extra thread carried
Stitch, Machine Zigzag Stitch your cross with the centre of your frame using between sections of the design, some
its guidelines. Take your time – it’s unlikely machines will have done this for you already.
NOTES your banner will be an exact fit for your frame To stitch the design by hand, transfer it from
so just ensure it is central and secure. Once the template onto the banner using your
Find the template on p80. you’re happy with the positioning, tighten the preferred method. Then, use one strand of
Download the Brother frame to firmly fix your banner in place. dark grey stranded cotton to work the outline
"*/,&!"/6* %&+"Ɯ)"#,/1%&0 Set up your machine as you usually of the flower in horizontal Satin Stitch and
project from www.gatherered. 03
would and make sure you have a fully then use Stem Stitch to work the central lines
how/machine-patterns wound bobbin. Select your colours; we used and the outlining rings. Use two strands of
It’s essential to calculate your dark grey as the main colour and blue for the blue thread to fill the circle with Satin Stitch.
exact sewing area for your banner. circle. Download the design (see Notes for the Use a hairdryer to erase any markings.
The design is 12.7cm in diameter 06
link) and use a USB stick or cable to upload Then, iron the banner on the reverse
but, depending on your machine, it to your machine. Remember to re-size the to remove any indents created by the
it should be possible to resize it design if necessary and ensure it’s centred, frame, avoiding ironing directly across the
0)&$%1)61,Ɯ16,2/ %,0"+++"/ǽ most machines will centre it for you. embroidered area. Then, display and enjoy!

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 63


MATERIALS TECHNIQUES STITCH GUIDE TEMPLATES

Materials
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET STARTED
ON YOUR EMBROIDERY ADVENTURE

YOUR BASIC FABRIC THREAD


EMBROIDERY KIT
Embroidery can be worked on a wide Choose thread for your project according
variety of fabrics or ready-made items. to how your finished embroidery will be
It’s best to choose fabrics with a fairly used. For items that will receive a lot of
smooth surface as heavily-textured wear and tear use hard-wearing thread,
For the majority of the projects
surfaces will prevent the stitches from such as stranded cotton. For decorative
in this issue you will need the lying flat. For beginners, it’s best to start pieces use finer decorative threads.
following items. There are with a 100% plain-weave cotton. Consider also how well they’ll cover the
!&ƛ"/"+116-"03&))"Ǿ0, embroidery design, and experiment to
read on to choose the correct When choosing fabric, consider its get the thickness you desire.
materials for each project. intended use, how much wear it will get
and how often it will need to be washed. STRANDED COTTON
Fabric This is a divisible, six-strand thread. One
Thread Fabric can be categorised by its weave strand forms a fine line, while six strands
Needles and fibre content. Plain weave is the most used together produce a bold, heavy line.
common type of weave and includes It’s available in a wide variety of more than
Scissors poplin, calico and canvas. Satin weave is a 400 colours, in pure cotton, silk and rayon.
Embroidery hoop really smooth fabric which is glossy on one
Transfer pens/pencils side; it includes cotton sateen and satin. COTON PERLÉ
Twill weave is a strong fabric with diagonal Also known as ‘pearl cotton’, this twisted
ribs, such as denim and tweed. Evenweave single-strand thread has a slight sheen
has regularly spaced holes between the and is available in four weights from
threads and is used for counted thread heavy to fine: 3, 5, 8, 12. It’s often used for
embroidery. Surface pattern, gingham and Hardanger embroidery.
ticking can be effectively embroidered on
top by following, or echoing, the print. COTON À BRODER
Also known as ‘special embroidery thread’,
The most common fibre used is cotton, this matte, single-strand thread is available
which is strong and washes well. Linen has in four weights from heavy to fine: 16,
a slightly uneven surface due to the natural 20, 25, 30. It can be used for surface
slubs, which are part of its charm. Silk is embroidery, blackwork and drawn thread.
luxurious and has a subtle sheen, but take
care when stitching on it as it can pucker. CREWEL WOOL
Pure wool fabric has quite a tight weave, This single-strand woollen thread is
is easy to stitch on and adds a wonderful available in many colours and used for
texture to embroidery. fine embroidery and crewel work.

64 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


MATERIALS ESSENTIALS

DESIGN TRANSFER
There are several tools and materials that
can be used for transferring designs.

TRANSFER PENS AND PENCILS


These are either permanent or temporary,
and are erasable by air, heat or water.

DRESSMAKER’S CARBON PAPER


This comes in different colours so it’ll
show up on different coloured fabrics.

IRON-ON TRANSFERS
These can be bought either singly or in
books and can be used more than once.

LIGHTBOX
SPECIALITY THREADS CREWEL/EMBROIDERY These are like an illuminated tablet and are
There are many other threads to choose This is the most commonly used needle for worth the investment for easy tracing.
from in a wealth of different effects, such embroidery. It’s a medium-length, sharp-
as space-dyed, hand-dyed and ombré. pointed needle with a long eye. PENCIL
Try flower, soft cotton and silk threads. A standard soft pencil can be used to trace
MILLINERS/STRAW a design onto fabric.

HOOPS & FRAMES


This long needle has a round eye, so is
perfect for working decorative stitches like WATER-SOLUBLE STABILISER PAPER
Using a hoop or frame makes it easier Bullion Knot. Draw or print a design on this, embroider
to achieve a neat, even finish without through it, then dissolve it in water.
the fabric distorting. Stands for hoops QUILTING/BETWEENS

USEFUL EXTRAS
and frames, which leave your hands free These needles are very short and fine with
to stitch, are available as floor-standing, a round eye. The shorter length makes
table, lap or seat-mounted. them ideal for fine needlework, such as COTTON TAPE
shadow work. Used to bind the inner embroidery hoop
HOOPS when stitching on fine or delicate fabrics.
Hoops work by holding a section of the SHARPS
fabric taut between two rings. Wooden These general purpose needles are LIGHTS AND MAGNIFIERS
hoops have two rings with an adjustable medium length with round eyes, which Perfect for seeing small stitches close up
metal screw. Spring tension hoops have makes them strong, and perfect for tightly or for working in artificial light.
a plastic outer ring with a metal spring- woven fabrics.
loaded inner ring to keep the fabric taut. SCISSORS
TAPESTRY Small, sharp scissors are invaluable for
FRAMES This blunt-ended, large-eyed needle is snipping off thread ends. Dressmaking
Frames are designed for larger pieces used for counted thread embroidery and scissors are used for cutting fabric to size.
to keep an entire piece of fabric taut. working whipstitch.
THIMBLE
These will protect your fingers,
particularly when using thicker threads.

THREAD CONDITIONER/BEESWAX
This helps stop the thread from getting
tangled, particularly metallic threads.
ESSENTIALS TECHNIQUES

CARBON PAPER HOW TO STITCH


Lay the carbon paper coloured side down CUTTING THE THREAD
onto your fabric, place your pattern on the With stranded cotton, there is a ‘right’
top and trace over the design. end to pull the thread from to stop the
skein tangling and knotting: the end with
TEAR-AWAY METHOD the longer wrapper that has the colour
This technique is used when stitching number. Find the cut end and gently pull.
on textured fabrics like velvet and suede. Cut thread no longer than 50cm (but for
Trace your design onto thin tracing or metallic threads, shorter 30cm lengths are
tissue paper, then tack it onto your fabric. best). To separate strands, cut a length of
Stitch through the fabric and paper, then thread, then hold the end gently between
carefully tear away the paper. your thumb and forefinger. Take one
strand and pull it gently upwards. If you
want more than one strand, separate them

HOW TO TRANSFER
individually then recombine them.

TRACING STARTING A THREAD


Place light-coloured and fine fabrics over There a few methods you can use:
the design and trace over it. For thicker Loop start If you’re stitching with two
or dark-coloured fabrics a light source strands, cut one strand twice the length
such as a window or lightbox makes this you need. Fold it in half so the two cut
process much simpler. ends meet and thread these through your
needle, leaving a loop at the other end.
TRANSFER PENS AND PENCILS Bring your needle up through the fabric,
Choose a colour that will show up on then back down, threading the needle
the fabric. Use a permanent marker if through the loop. This neat method works
the stitching will cover the lines, or a with any even number of strands.
removable marker if you need to erase the
lines afterwards – test first on a scrap of Waste knot Tie a knot in the end of the

USING A HOOP
fabric so you know it can be removed. thread and pull the needle and thread
through the fabric, from the front to the
IRON-ON TRANSFERS Place the inner ring of the hoop under the back, near to where you’ll be working.
Press your fabric, then place your transfer fabric directly below the area you wish to Work stitches over the end of the thread,
sheet ink side down on top and press stitch. Loosen the screw on the outer ring then cut off the knot when you reach it.
with a hot, dry iron (taking care with and place this over the fabric and inner
heat-sensitive fabrics). You can reuse the ring. Push down firmly and evenly, then Weaving in Weave the end of the thread
transfers three to four times depending on tighten the screw and gently pull the edges under the back of worked stitches.
the type of fabric you use. of the fabric beyond the hoop so that it’s
‘drum tight’. Regularly check the tension FINISHING A THREAD
WATER-SOLUBLE STABILISER of your fabric as you stitch, and adjust Weave the thread under the back of the
This lightweight, slightly perforated paper accordingly. If you’re using delicate fabric, stitches just worked. Start and finish all
stays on the fabric as you embroider. Once begin by wrapping cotton tape around threads very securely so they don’t come
you’ve finished stitching, soak it with the the inner ring to protect your fabric from undone and cut off loose ends as you go so
fabric and it dissolves when rinsed. being marked by the hoop. they don’t get caught in stitching.

66 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Stitch
Guide
2
1
3

Backstitch
Backstitch forms a neat line which can be used alone or to outline
other stitches. Backstitch should be worked so that all the stitches
are the same length with no gaps between them. Bring the needle
LEFT-HANDED STITCHERS up at 1, down at 2, up at 3 and so on. Continue stitching in this
If you are left-handed, you may need to way, always working back on yourself.
work some stitches differently. Please go
to www.gathered.how/love-embroidery
for information for left-handed stitchers.

FINISHING
When you’ve finished stitching, gently 3 1
wash your work in lukewarm water and a
little mild detergent. Rinse well, adding a
2
drop of white vinegar to the final rinse to
restore the sheen of the thread. Roll the
fabric in a clean towel to absorb excess
water. Place a towel on an ironing board,
put your embroidery face down on it with
a clean cloth on top, and press until dry.
Blanket Stitch
Bring the needle up at 1, down at 2 and up at 3 with the thread
under the needle. Gently pull the needle through to form a neat
loop. The vertical stitches should all be evenly spaced and of the
0*")"+$1%ǽ,2*6Ɯ+!&1%")-01,!/4)&+",+1%"#/& 0
a guide to keep the stitches even and regular.

2
1

MOUNTING A HOOP
Cut the fabric 5cm bigger than the outer
hoop. Cut a piece of felt the same size
as the inner hoop. Mount the fabric into
the hoop with the design central and the Brick stitch
screw centre top. Work running stitch ,/(/,4,#"3"+Ȓ)"+$1% (01&1 %"0),+$1%"/"1,"Ɯ))"!ǽ
around the fabric edge and pull to gather 1&1 %6,2/+"51/,4,# (01&1 %"0"),41%"Ɯ/01/,4Ǿ*(&+$
it. Pin the felt over the gathered fabric and 1%"*1%"0*")"+$1%01%,0",3"Ǿ21,ƛ0"11&+$1%"*ǽ%"
stitch into place, then sew a small ring at stitches at the beginning and end of this row will be shorter than
the top to hang your hoop from. 1%",1%"/0ǽ,+1&+2"&+1%&046Ǿ0,6,2%3"Ȉ/& (ȒƜ))"!ȉ/"ǽ

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 67


ESSENTIALS STITCH GUIDE

Stitch
Guide

1
1 2

3 2

1 2

%XçLRQ.QRW &KDLQ6WLWFK
Bring the needle up at 1 and down at 2. Bring it up again at 1 and Chain Stitch works well as a decorative outline. Work from right to
wrap the thread around the needle as many times as the stitch )"ƞ/&+$&+$1%"+""!)"2-1ǖǾ!,4+1Ǘ+!2-1ǘǾ*(&+$02/"
)"+$1%/".2&/"0ǽ ,)!&+$1%"14&010Ɯ/*)64&1%6,2/1%2*Ǿ-2))1%" that the thread is under the needle. Pull the needle through slowly
needle through the thread coils. Pull back in the opposite direction 1,#,/*+"1),,-Ȕ!,+ȉ1-2))1,,1&$%1)6,/1%"Ȉ %&+ȉ"ƛ" 14&))
0,1%" ,&))&"0Ɲ1Ǿ1%"+&+0"/11%"+""!)" (&+1Ǘǽ be lost. Point 3 becomes point 1 of the next stitch.

2 4
2

3 1
1 3

&RXFKLQJ6WLWFK &URVV6WLWFK
Bring the laid thread up at the edge of the design line then the Working on a fabric with an even grid of holes, bring the needle
couching thread up just beyond this. Place the laid thread into up at 1 and work a diagonal stitch, going down at 2. Come up
position and work a small, vertical ‘Couching’ Stitch over it. Each again at 3, in the hole next to 1, and work a diagonal stitch in the
of these stitches should be the same width as the laid thread and opposite direction, going down at 4, overlapping the previous
worked at equal intervals along it. 01&1 %1, /"1" /,000%-"ǽ"-"11,Ɯ))+/"ǽ

2
1
1
3
2

)LJXUHRI(LJKW.QRW )LVKERQH6WLWFK
Bring the needle up at 1 and loop a thread over it. Next, take Bring the needle out at the top of the shape and make a short
1%"1%/"!,3"/+!2+!"/1%"+""!)"&+Ɯ$2/"Ȓ,#Ȓ"&$%1ǽ20% vertical stitch. Bring the needle up at 1 slightly to the right
1%"+""!)" (!,4+&+1,1%"#/& 1ǗǾ ),0"1,4%"/"&1Ɯ/01 following the shape outline. Take the needle diagonally down at 2
emerged. Tighten the loops around the needle and hold them in 11%" "+1/")&+""),41%"Ɯ/0101&1 %ǽ/&+$&12-1ǘ,+1%")"ƞ
place, then pull the needle through carefully to form a neat knot. 0&!"+!(""-)1"/+1&+$1%"0"!&$,+)01&1 %"0#/,*/&$%11,)"ƞǽ

68 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Stitch
Guide

1 1
2 5 3
6
3
4 2

)O\6WLWFK )éHQFK.QRW
Bring the needle up at 1 then down at 2 without pulling the needle Bring the needle up at 1. Holding the thread with one hand, twist
through the fabric. Bring the needle up again at 3, over the thread the needle around the thread twice. Insert the point of the needle
,#1%"Ɯ/0101&1 %+!-2))&11%/,2$%ǽ("0%,/101&1 %1,0" 2/" into the fabric close to where the thread emerged, pull the thread
the ‘V’ shape and create one Fly Stitch. If you are working in lines, to tighten the knot, then push the needle slowly through the
place the stitches side by side or below each other. fabric. Make a larger knot by increasing the number of twists.

3
3
1
2 2
1
4
3

+ROEHLQ6WLWFK /D]\'DLV\6WLWFK
Holbein Stitch, also known as Double Running Stitch, creates the /&+$1%"+""!)"2-1ǖ+!!,4+1ǗǾ/&$%1+"511,4%"/"&1Ɯ/01
0*""ƛ" 10 (01&1 %,+1%"#/,+1,#1%"4,/(Ǿ21$&3"0 emerged, but without pulling the needle all the way through the
neater appearance on the back. Work a line of Running Stitch by fabric. Bring it up again at 3, with the thread under the needle.
bringing the needle up at 1, down at 2, up at 3, down at 4 and so Pull the needle gently to form a loop. Secure the loop with a short
,+ǽ,/( (),+$1%")&+"Ɯ))&+$&+1%"$-0ǽ stitch by pushing the needle through the fabric at 4.

13

2
4

/RQJDQG6KèW6WLWFK 3DGGHG6DWLQ6WLWFK
,/()1"/+1"),+$+!0%,/101&1 %"0#,/1%"Ɯ/01/,4Ǿ4&1% Padded Satin Stitch gives a more raised appearance than Satin
the short stitches being half the length of the long ones. Bring 1&1 %ǽ &/01ǾƜ))1%"/"4&1%01&1 %&+$02 %0%&+1&1 %Ǿ""!
the needle up at 1, down at 2, up at 3, down at 4 and so on. Stitch, Straight Stitch or Running Stitch. Next, work Satin Stitch
Subsequent rows are worked with the just long stitches, although over the area to cover the padding stitches in the usual way. For an
1%"01&1 %)"+$1% +"!'201"!1,02&11%"/""&+$Ɯ))"!ǽ even more raised look, add another layer of Satin Stitch on top.

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 69


ESSENTIALS STITCH GUIDE

Stitch
Guide

1
1
2 3
2

Reverse Chain Stitch Running Stitch


"$&+64,/(&+$0&+$)"76&061&1 %ǽ%"+Ǿ/&+$1%"+""!)" This is a very versatile outline stitch which can also be used
up at 1, keeping the length of the stitch consistent as you do. Now, beneath other stitches to add a layer of padding. Running Stitches
take the needle underneath the previous stitch, taking care not should all be of the same length. Bring the needle up at 1, down at
to catch the threads above or the fabric below. Then, insert the 2, up at 3 and so on. The spaces between the stitches are usually
needle back in at 1 to create a linked chain. Continue in this way. the same length as the stitches themselves, but you can vary this.

2 1 2

3
1

Satin Stitch 6æG6WLWFK


Bring the needle up at 1, down at 2 and up at 3, working stitches Seed Stitch is an individual stitch, but when worked together in
close together. Keep stitching in this way, under and over, so that groups is called Seeding. This is simply short straight stitches
the back of the work looks the same as the front. To maintain an 4,/("!/+!,*)6&+!&ƛ"/"+1!&/" 1&,+0ǽ%"/"&0+,-/1& 2)/
even tension, always take the needle out at the back, then back in pattern to follow, but the stitches should all be of the same length,
at the front in two steps rather than in and out in one motion. evenly spaced and scattered across the fabric.

2 1 3
3
1
2

Split Stitch Stem Stitch


Bring the needle up at 1, down at 2 and up at 3, but don’t pull it all Stem Stitch forms a solid, raised line with a textured appearance.
the way through the fabric. Pull the needle up through the centre It can be used to follow any shape and is good for working curved
of the thread to split it, then carry on pulling it up through the lines. Bring the needle up just above the design line at 1, down at
fabric and the thread. Work the whole outline in this way, making 2 below the line, and back up at 3 above the line. Continue in this
sure you always split the thread in the centre to form even stitches. way, always working back on yourself.

70 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Stitch
Guide 2 1 3 4

Straight Stitch Turkey Stitch


Straight Stitch is very versatile as it can be worked to any length Leave 5cm of thread on top of the fabric. Take the needle in at 1,
and in any direction. It is particularly useful in pictorial work for out at 2, in at 3 and out at 1. Push the needle back in at 4 and out
adding details and it can also be used to outline other areas of at 3. Don’t pull the thread all the way through; leave a loop on the
stitching, providing that the edges are straight. Bring the needle front. Continue in this way along the line, leaving a loop of thread
up at 1, then down at 2 to create the required stitch length. each time. When done, cut the loops to your desired fringe length.

3
1

Variated Backstitch Whipstitch


%&0Ɯ))&+$01&1 %&0&!")4%"+6,24+1/,2$%"/1"512/"1,6,2/ /&+$1%"+""!)",211ǖ,+1%"Ɯ/01)6"/,##/& Ǿ+"/1%""!$"ǽ
work so is especially useful for stems, stalks and branches. It can Then, insert the needle back in at 2 on the second layer of fabric,
"20"!1,Ɯ))+60&7",/0%-"+!&04,/("!/+!,*)6ǽ &))1%" angling it so that it pierces both layers of fabric and comes out at
area with Backstitches keeping them facing in the same direction ǘ,+1%"Ɯ/01)6"/4%"/"1%"+"5101&1 %4&))"$&+ǽ,+1&+2"&+1%&0
214&1%!&ƛ"/"+1)"+$1%02+1&)1%"#/& "+"1%&0 ,3"/"!ǽ way, working from points 2 to 3, until your pieces are joined.

4 7
1 2
2 4

1 3
5 6

Whipped Backstitch :RYHQ:KæO


First, work a line of Backstitch. Next, thread a blunt pointed Work spokes by coming out of the centre at 1 then in at 2 on the
tapestry needle and bring it up from beneath the centre of the edge of the circle. Come out again at the centre and in at 3 and so
Ɯ/01 (01&1 %ǽ/&+$1%"+""!)",212+!"/1%"01&1 %+!1%/"!&1 on to complete the spokes. Using a blunt needle, bring the thread
under the next stitch from bottom to top. Continue whipping the out under one of the spokes at 7 then weave it under and over
Backstitches in the same way without piercing the fabric or thread. each spoke alternately without piercing the spokes or fabric.

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 71


ESSENTIALS TEMPLATES

Templates
HERE ARE ALL THE TEMPLATES YOU NEED
TO MAKE THE PROJECTS IN THIS ISSUE

COTTAGE HOOP
Page 14
Pattern at 100%

Thank you for making these projects from Love Embroidery. The copyright for these templates belongs to the designer of the project (and/or Our Media).
The magazine and all of its contributors work extremely hard to create projects for you to enjoy, so please don’t re-sell or distribute these patterns without
0""(&+$-"/*&00&,+Ɯ/01ǽ)"0"!,+,1*("+6-/1,#1%"1"*-)1"0,/&+01/2 1&,+03&))"1,,1%"/01%/,2$%6,2/4"0&1",/1%&/!-/16Ǿ
,/ ,-6&1*2)1&-)"1&*"04&1%,21,2/-"/*&00&,+ǽ,-6/&$%1)4-/,1" 10 /"1&3"4,/(+!2+21%,/&0"! ,-6&+$&0&))"$)ǽ"--/" &1"6,2/%")-ǽ

72 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


SUMMER SHORTS
Page 26
Pattern at 100%

MERIT BADGES
Page 49
Patterns at 100%

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 73


ESSENTIALS TEMPLATES

COVER GIFT BANNER


Page 11
Pattern at 100%

74 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


RUG HOOP
Page 34
Pattern at 100%

SKILLS WORKSHOP
Page 30
Pattern at 100%

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 75


ESSENTIALS TEMPLATES

GARDEN CANVAS
Page 30
Pattern at 50%, enlarge by 200%

76 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


TEA HOOPS
Page 52
Patterns at 100%

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 77


ESSENTIALS TEMPLATES

MACHINE PLAY CUBE


Page 60
Patterns at 100%

78 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


MACHINE PLAY CUBE
Page 60
Patterns at 100%

DAISY BRACELET
Page 55
Pattern at 100%

www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 79


ESSENTIALS TEMPLATES

MACHINE BANNER
Page 62
Pattern at 100%

80 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery


Next issue Meet the team
Editor Nikki Morgan
Art Editor Matilda Smith
Production Editor Louise McCarney
Technical Editor Heather Nugent

Contributors
Amy Burt • Arounna Khounnoraj • Helen Ashcroft • Jessie Doe
• Kseniia Guseva • Lara Sparks • Liz Stiglets • Louisa Burtonshaw
• Lucy Peltier • Natalie Gaynor • Niamh Wimperis • Robert Bewick
• Shikira Alleyne • Vanyll Noslen
*COVER GIFT AND CONTENT SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Photography by Our Media Photo Studio


unless otherwise stated

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Step-by-step Love Embroidery ISSN 2633-6413 (USPS XXXXX) April Edition, Issue 26 is published
monthly with an extra copy in October by Our Media Ltd., Eagle House, Bristol, BS1
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www.gathered.how/love-embroidery | Love Embroidery | 81


IMAGES © LARA SPARKS, WWW.LARASPARKS-EMBROIDERY.CO.UK
M Y S T Y LE

L
ara Sparks has been How do you pick the colours?
making a living on “By the very nature Different seasons and
her sewing machine
for more than 30 years now.
of the technique, it’s landscapes inspire different
colours; from wetlands to
With a passion for freemotion
embroidery, she’s designed
so free – everyone has woodlands to rolling fields.

everything from garments to


homewares. Taking time out
their own unique style” What’s your favourite part
of freemotion embroidery?
of her busy, sewing-packed You can never mass-produce a
schedule, she shares the inspiration lampshades and stayed there for quite a design. By the very nature of the technique,
behind some of her most popular work while – I think it took them some time to it’s so free and guided by hand – everyone
with us; her floral lampshades. realise it wasn’t a real flower. I took that as has their own unique style. I always tell my
a massive compliment. My floral designs students that you can never make a mistake
What was the inspiration behind your have always been popular with my with freemotion; if the lines are a bit
Wildflowers lampshade design? customers – and, it turns out, the bees! wobbly that’s all part of the character.
I walk my labrador every day, so I guess
it’s on these walks where I get inspired – What is your process like?
always the outdoors for me! Although we Since graduating from Loughborough
have wonderful, larger and more dramatic College of Art & Design in 1990, where LARA SPARKS
looking flowers in our garden, it’s the I studied textiles and machine embroidery,
hedgerows and fields around them where I have enjoyed using my sewing machine Lara is a freemotion
I enjoy the smaller flowers and numerous like an art box. My needle is my paintbrush embroidery designer
grasses in all their different varieties. and my cottons are my paint. I started and maker with over 30
producing embroidered lampshades a few years of experience. She
What is it about florals that appeals to you? years ago, when I released how unique specialises in garments
There was a show a few years ago, where it was to have light shining through the +!%,*"4/"0Ǿ,ƞ"+#"12/&+$1%"
I was exhibiting in an outdoor marquee. embroidery or appliqué. My latest designs 4&)!Ɲ,4"/0/,2+!%"/%,*"ǽ
While chatting to some customers, a large are actually embroidered landscapes www.larasparks-embroidery.co.uk
bumblebee landed on one of my floral wrapped around the lampshades. @lara_sparks_embroidery

82 | Love Embroidery | www.gathered.how/love-embroidery

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