Discovering Embroidery

Natalia Aiello

While I learned how to embroider at a young age, it didn’t become a passion until I felt a longing for a more unique, eco-conscious wardrobe. A few years ago, I really wanted a Nike shirt but I couldn’t find one that was in my price range as a broke high school student. This dilemma finally culminated in a trip to the crafts store. I bought a bunch of new thread, needles, and even an embroidery hoop! I quickly began to sketch the logo and workshop di ff erent approaches. After a long week of careful handwork, it came out even better than I expected. To add to its individuality, I added some other small designs to really tie the piece together. Through this experience, embroidery became a creative outlet for me to experiment and express myself while saving money and being mindful of my ecological footprint.

To get started with embroidery, all you need is embroidery string and needles, scissors, a hoop (optional), and your design! Another important aspect to consider when sourcing your materials is utilizing pre-loved products. This means sourcing already used clothing, fabrics, and string rather than newly purchased products. When utilizing these secondhand items you are not only saving money, but you are also saving it from the landfill! I recommend hitting up Art From Scrap– our local secondhand art store– for all of your embroidery needs before looking elsewhere.

I would have to say that choosing a design is my favorite part of the entire embroidery process. The world is your oyster at this moment! Initially, before I did research on fabric design, I would cut out my own stencils and draw a design in pen first. While I’ll always have a sentimental soft spot for those early embroidery days, I now prefer to draw a design and use transfer paper. Either way works!

Hand sewing is a great option because anyone can partake in it. No sewing machine is required, especially if you’re on a budget. Embroidery string usually consists of 6 strands weaved together and the amount of strands you decide to use affects your embroidery. Essentially the more strands you use, the thicker your stitches will be. Personally, I like to thread the needle using 3 strands at a time so I have moderate thickness but can still stitch intricate designs. After threading your needle, make sure to tie a knot at the needle and on the other side of the thread so your stitches stay intact. The ‘running stitch’ is the most common one, which involves bringing the needle in one side of the fabric and out the other. Although, there is a huge variety of stitches to learn in order to accomplish the design that resonates with you. Get to googling!