Top Embroidery Tips

I Wish I Knew This Before I Started Embroidering

I am a self-taught embroiderer, and I fell in love with embroidery from the very first stitch.

I started in 2020 with a few beginner kits I found online. At the time, I had no idea what I was doing — I learned by reading books, watching countless YouTube tutorials, and mostly through trial and error. There were tangled threads, uneven stitches, and a few pieces that didn’t survive their first wash. But every mistake taught me something valuable.

Over the years, I’ve learned small but important lessons that would have saved me time, frustration, and even a few ruined projects. These are the tips I truly wish I had known when I first picked up a needle — and I hope they help you enjoy your embroidery journey a little more.

My Top Embroidery Tips for Beginners

1. Always use an embroidery hoop and keep the fabric tight
Your fabric should be stretched tightly in the hoop, almost like a drum. If you tap it with your fingers, it should make a soft, drum-like sound. A tight fabric gives you better control, helps your stitches sit neatly, and makes your finished piece look clean and professional.

2. Invest in good-quality threads (your future self will thank you)
I know good threads are more expensive, and I started with the cheapest ones too. But I learned the hard way that poor-quality threads can bleed colour when washed, fade over time, or even weaken and snap. Some of my early projects were damaged after washing — and hours of work were lost. Quality threads protect your time, effort, and finished pieces.

3. Separate your strands — even if it feels slow
Most embroidery floss is made of six strands. Using all six at once can make stitches bulky and uneven. Separating the strands and using fewer (usually 1–3) gives your work a softer, more refined look. It takes a little longer, but the difference is worth it.

4. Don’t pull your stitches too tight
Tight stitches can distort the fabric and make your design look puckered. Embroidery should be gentle — let the thread rest on the fabric instead of pulling it through with force. Relaxed stitches create smoother lines and a more polished finish.

5. Wash and care for your embroidery properly
Hand-wash your finished pieces in cool water with mild soap, especially if you’re unsure about thread quality. Never wring them out — gently press out excess water and let them air dry flat. Care matters just as much as stitching.