I stitch all my designs using the simplest of stitches - mostly back stitch, straight stitch, running stitch, french knots, lazy daisy and satin stitch.  There are hundreds of YouTube tutorials showing you how to do these stitches, or you could purchase an Embroidery Stitches book to refer to.

 

There are no rules when it comes to the fabric that you choose to stitch on - I use a variety of colours and weights - many of my fabrics are purchased from “dress fabric” stores.  I also use old tea towels and vintage linens.  You can use different weights of cloth, for instance a lighter weight calico is a good place to start, or heavier weights of linens.  Look for fabrics that also have an interesting texture - these add to the overall effect.

Again, there are no rules, although I do tend to stitch predominantly using only one strand.  All my designs could just as easily be stitched with two strands and in most cases three strands would look just as good.  The more strands you use, the chunkier the design will look so if aiming for a finer look, I would suggest you stick to one or two strands.

You will need to trace the pattern onto the fabric using a light source.  If using a light box simply place the pattern sheet right side up on the light box, then place your stitching fabric over the top and trace the design.  If you don’t have a light box you can use a window - just tape the pattern sheet to the window, then the stitching fabric over the top, and trace the design.  I find it helps to also tape the fabric in place - stops it from moving and makes the tracing easier.

I have always used a very fine pigma pen - I have found that the line is so fine that even one strand will cover it, and the pattern does not rub off.  You can use a pencil, though - just make sure to sharpen it really well so the line is as fine a possible. There are also various marking pens you can purchase, ones that fade and ones that wash off.  I would not recommend the ones the wash off as some threads are susceptible to the colours “running” when washed.

It’s very important that you read the download instructions that are sent to you within the purchase email BEFORE you try to download your pattern.  I also have these listed on my website - click here to view them. When you purchase one of my pdf patterns, you will notice a “box” that says “download your pattern here”.  Once you have clicked on that box the pattern is downloaded to your computer - please note that it wont automatically pop up in your inbox - you will need to locate it within your computers download folder.  The location of this folder will vary, depending on what computer you are using. I am often asked to resend the download as it did not work the first time.  In every instance the download has been activated but it is a matter of locating it in your computer.  

Every computer has a downloads folder where all downloads are automatically saved to. There are three easy ways to find it.  You can enter the word “downloads” into your computer’s search bar (not google).  Or you can search the file name in the computers search bar (not google) - the file name can be found in the email sending you the pattern - you must enter it exactly as writtten.  Or if using a Windows computer you can use “Ctrl + J” or for Mac computers use “Command + Spacebar” - these are shortcuts to your download history and you will see the pdf pattern listed there.

 

Each purchase entitles you to one download of the pattern - once you have downloaded it you will always have access to it on your computer - you will not be able to download it again, nor will you be able to share the download link.