Monogram Letters for Embroidery

I have been doing more hand embroidery work lately and I have been designing new pieces. I hope to share more of my creations with you; however, let me know what you think if you have a chance to check out my FREE embroidery pattern.

To add to my renewed exploration into hand embroidery designs I have been doing a lot of research. I am particularly interested in older patterns and combining unique stitches. I came across this blog post on Enbrouderie, that had such a wonderful link that I just had to share. I posted it on my embroidery pinterest board, but felt that it deserved its' own post.

What do your think of this stunning lettering? I really will like to add this to a linen pillowcase or something equally as exquisite. The beautiful illustration can even be used as art on its' own.

Image Source: Antique Pattern Library

If you will like to get the full collection along with other wonderful designs visit the Antique Pattern Library. You can download this collection of stunning lettering here.

Happy stitching!

Embroidery Hoop Art

Over the years I have enjoyed hand embroidering and have added embroidered details to many of my sewing projects. However, I must admit that it has been some time since I have done any embroidery work. However, due to several request, I have been thinking of adding an embroidery workshop to the Crafted Spaces sewing program.

Earlier this week I did a book review on "Doodle Stitching: The Motif Collection" and as I mentioned in the review, I was inspired to start a new embroidery project. The book has tons of wonderful ideas, but I really wanted to create a design of my own. I also wanted to create something interesting for my studio and thought of making a hoop art piece.

I did not start off with a pattern or even a design in mind. I started by using some sewing chalk to outline the word "create." I then outlined the shape of a tree. The rest of the design just evolved as I was working on the piece. I have incorporated several embroidery stitches, but had the most fun with the "French Knot."

Once the piece was completed, I decided to display it on my new pegboard.

I used a piece of 100% cotton gingham fabric from my vintage fabric stash. I also used eleven different colours of 100% cotton embroidery DMC floss. Most of the stitches were done using three strands of floss; while for areas such as the tree outline I used the full six stands.

You can also make these super cute hoop art pieces with an interesting fabric print and forgo on the whole task of embroidering if you like. I have also seen some great hoop pieces using crochet doilies. I made this smaller piece using a piece of vintage 100% cotton fabric.

I think I will like to make more of these to decorate my studio wall. I definitely need a larger one and a couple in the 6" and 8" hoop size. I have already started a second piece, this time I'm using an oval shaped vintage hoop that I found at the thrift store.

What do you think about hoop art pieces?


UPDATE:
I have created a downloadable pdf of the embroidery design, which I will like to share with you. You can use any combination of stitches or colours you like. If you have any questions, just leave me a comment below.

I used three different shades of green for the leaves, which I did using a daisy stitch. For the flowers I did french knots using three different shades of pink. The bee was done using a combination of back stitch, french knots and the bullion embroidery stitch for the body of the bee. The outline of the tree was done using a stem stitch and the letters were done with a chain stitch.

Here is a FREE download of the pattern. Please let me know how your project turns out. I hope you enjoy!

Click Here for FREE Download!

Book Review: Doodle Stitching The Motif Collection

Doodle Stitching: The Motif Collection by Aimee Ray

Today I will like to share a new addition to Crafted Spaces library collection. The book contains "400+ easy embroidery designs" and includes a bonus CD. You can work along with the projects, or use the images to create your own unique combinations. The projects presented are simple and many of them will make great gift ideas.

The images and illustrations are playful, and the instructions are easy to follow. It is a great book for beginners; however, even an experienced stitcher can be inspired by the simplicity and whimsy of the designs. It is great inspiration if you are thinking about transforming your "doodles" into embroidery art, and has lots of ideas for you to play with as well. I also think that the CD is a wonderful treat and it adds additional value to the book.

After reading the book, I was inspired to create a new embroidery pattern. Even though I did not use the images from the book, I have to credit the author with conveying the idea of just having fun with images. I have started my new project and I hope to share it with you in a follow-up post.

To find out more about the author Aimee Ray, visit her blog or website. You can also receive a FREE download via the publisher Lark Crafts. ISBN 13: 978-1-60059-581-3

*As with all of our book reviews, this review was not solicited or endorsed in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and is presented in the spirit of sharing inspirational works and promoting creativity.