Hand Embroidery

Hand-Embroidery is done with a needle, some thread, a piece of cloth, and sometimes a pattern. Some people use an embroidery hoop, and some choose not to use one. Did you know? Examples of hand-embroidery have been found at archaeological excavations dating back 2,000 years, but the ART of embroidery goes back even further. Styles change with the times, and each person will stitch theirs in their own unique way. There are, however, numerous “standard” stitches that have stood the test of time, and illustrations of them can be found in books, online, and in a few of my patterns! Each pattern below will tell you how much fabric and thread you need, as well as the colors you may use for various sections. Hand-Embroidery is very relaxing. I hope you enjoy the journey.

My quilt club needed a pattern with several designs on it that were the size of a man’s handkerchief. After discussing theme options, they decided on the state of Texas. I collected images and made sketches, and before long I had designed my first hand-embroidery pattern. The club made their first Spirit of Texas quilt to donate for a church auction. (It raised over a thousand dollars!)