Embroidery
Instantly downloadable PDF embroidery patterns are available in my Etsy shop for the designs shown below, you can click on an image if you would like to be taken to the Etsy listing. Each pattern is slightly different, please see each individual listing for more information, and see below for frequently asked questions.
Instantly downloadable PDF embroidery patterns are available in my Etsy shop for the designs shown below, you can click on an image if you would like to be taken to the Etsy listing. Each pattern is slightly different, please see each individual listing for more information, and see below for frequently asked questions.
Embroidery FAQ
How do your PDF patterns work?
When you purchase a PDF pattern from my Etsy shop, you will be able to download two files: one containing the pattern itself, along with information about how to stitch it, and one containing a stitch guide, which will tell you how to do some basic embroidery stitches. The PDFs will require a programme such as Adobe Reader to open in. It is best to view the pattern at 100% so you are seeing the pages in the size they were intended.
Patterns can be printed to allow them to be easily transferred onto fabric using the method described or a method of your choice, and also to allow you to refer to the instructions off screen. Each page is A4 size, so to ensure your pattern prints at the right size, chose A4 paper and select 'fit to size' The PDFs can also be viewed on phones and tablets which have appropriate PDF viewing software, this can be useful if you like to carry your stitching with you away from the computer.
What if I need more help stitching a pattern I have purchased from you?
You are always welcome to get in touch if you need any extra advice and assistance for stitching a pattern. There is no time frame for this, even if you purchased the pattern a year ago and are only just getting around to stitching it, you are still welcome to get in touch.
Materials and technique
What materials will I need if I want to start doing embroidery?
You will need a piece of fabric, a hoop, a needle, a pair of scissors and thread of some description. I use DMC stranded cotton floss most of the time, as this is really good quality and can be split into strands depending on the thickness of thread you want to use, but many other threads can be used too, including for example machine embroidery thread.
Which needles do you recommend for embroidery?
I personally use size 7 John James embroidery needles for most of my work, as these are easy to thread and just the right size to stitch with. I also use size 10 embroidery needles sometimes, for more detailed work and also for stitching on small beads. I'd encourage you to try different ones to get a feel for what is most comfortable for you to work with.
What fabric do you recommend?
My favourite fabric to stitch on is plain calico. It has just the right kind of weave and I love the natural colour. I almost always recommend two layers of fabric when stitching a piece which will be finished in a hoop, as adding an extra layer of fabric on the back can help stop threads showing through.
Which hoops do you use?
I use Elbesee wooden embroidery hoops, but I have also used unbranded bamboo hoops in the past. As long as it holds the fabric taught, do feel free to use whatever hoop you have or can easily get hold of :)
How do you transfer patterns to fabric?
My favourite method for transferring patterns to fabric is simply taping the pattern to the back of my fabric (before adding a second layer of fabric) holding it up to a light source and drawing around it.
What kind of embroidery stitches are used in your patterns?
My embroidery patterns generally have outlines worked in backstitch or stem stitch, and then use seed stitch and straight stitches to fill in areas and create areas of pattern. The odd French knot will often find its way in too!
How do you come up with ideas for your pattern designs?
I am primarily inspired by the natural world, particularly birds, so I find a lot of the patterns I design are bird based! I also love to work with folk art inspired pattern and embellishment. I start with an idea and begin making sketches, usually adding colour and stitch notes. I will then work these up into a more final pattern drawing before transferring it to my fabric and starting to stitch. When the embroidery is complete, I take photographs and write it up into a pattern.
How do your PDF patterns work?
When you purchase a PDF pattern from my Etsy shop, you will be able to download two files: one containing the pattern itself, along with information about how to stitch it, and one containing a stitch guide, which will tell you how to do some basic embroidery stitches. The PDFs will require a programme such as Adobe Reader to open in. It is best to view the pattern at 100% so you are seeing the pages in the size they were intended.
Patterns can be printed to allow them to be easily transferred onto fabric using the method described or a method of your choice, and also to allow you to refer to the instructions off screen. Each page is A4 size, so to ensure your pattern prints at the right size, chose A4 paper and select 'fit to size' The PDFs can also be viewed on phones and tablets which have appropriate PDF viewing software, this can be useful if you like to carry your stitching with you away from the computer.
What if I need more help stitching a pattern I have purchased from you?
You are always welcome to get in touch if you need any extra advice and assistance for stitching a pattern. There is no time frame for this, even if you purchased the pattern a year ago and are only just getting around to stitching it, you are still welcome to get in touch.
Materials and technique
What materials will I need if I want to start doing embroidery?
You will need a piece of fabric, a hoop, a needle, a pair of scissors and thread of some description. I use DMC stranded cotton floss most of the time, as this is really good quality and can be split into strands depending on the thickness of thread you want to use, but many other threads can be used too, including for example machine embroidery thread.
Which needles do you recommend for embroidery?
I personally use size 7 John James embroidery needles for most of my work, as these are easy to thread and just the right size to stitch with. I also use size 10 embroidery needles sometimes, for more detailed work and also for stitching on small beads. I'd encourage you to try different ones to get a feel for what is most comfortable for you to work with.
What fabric do you recommend?
My favourite fabric to stitch on is plain calico. It has just the right kind of weave and I love the natural colour. I almost always recommend two layers of fabric when stitching a piece which will be finished in a hoop, as adding an extra layer of fabric on the back can help stop threads showing through.
Which hoops do you use?
I use Elbesee wooden embroidery hoops, but I have also used unbranded bamboo hoops in the past. As long as it holds the fabric taught, do feel free to use whatever hoop you have or can easily get hold of :)
How do you transfer patterns to fabric?
My favourite method for transferring patterns to fabric is simply taping the pattern to the back of my fabric (before adding a second layer of fabric) holding it up to a light source and drawing around it.
What kind of embroidery stitches are used in your patterns?
My embroidery patterns generally have outlines worked in backstitch or stem stitch, and then use seed stitch and straight stitches to fill in areas and create areas of pattern. The odd French knot will often find its way in too!
How do you come up with ideas for your pattern designs?
I am primarily inspired by the natural world, particularly birds, so I find a lot of the patterns I design are bird based! I also love to work with folk art inspired pattern and embellishment. I start with an idea and begin making sketches, usually adding colour and stitch notes. I will then work these up into a more final pattern drawing before transferring it to my fabric and starting to stitch. When the embroidery is complete, I take photographs and write it up into a pattern.
