In this workshop, Darci will teach participants all the basics to get them started on their hand embroidery journey. This is a great introduction for people interested in learning a new skill to create or add to their art!

Suggest Supplies

· Fabric. I suggest a piece of mid-weight woven cotton or linen fabric large enough to extend beyond your hoop by an inch. The color is your choice, but lighter colors are easier to work with for beginners. What does mid-weight mean? Not too thick, not too thin. Denim from your jeans would be too thick. Easy to read text through the fabric without light behind it would be too thin. If you have light-weight fabric, you can double it to get the right thickness. Woven fabrics do not stretch easily (so no on that t-shirt fabric. You can repurpose old fabric for this. Think pillowcase, shower curtain, button-down shirt.

· Needles. I recommend a multi-pack of embroidery, craft, or crewel needles with different lengths and sizes to find one comfortable for your needs.

· Embroidery hoop. My favorite hoop is the plastic hoop from Loops & Threads (Michaels) with the extra ridge in the middle to keep fabric from slipping, or other brand of no-slip/super grip or tongue in groove plastic hoops. I think they are easier and less frustrating to work with. Bamboo hoops are cheap and available everywhere and will work for this, but the fabric will need to be adjusted more often because it slips easily. The hoop is only for while you’re embroidering; you can change to a permanent hoop or frame after you’ve finished. I would suggest a 5-6” hoop, but any medium size is fine.

· Scissors. Any kind is fine as long as they’re sharp!

· Embroidery floss. Any color or colors of six-strand cotton embroidery floss. The most common brand in the US is DMC.

· Other items that may be useful:

o Needle threader (free with some needle packs or emergency sewing kits)

o Pencil or water soluble fabric marker

o Embroidery thimble

o Seam ripper

o Magnifying glasses (if you need them)