In addition to some of the sewing projects I've started lately, I've also begun a new embroidery project. I'm working on a Christmas/ holiday pattern for the shop that has kind of a rustic, woodland vibe to it. This time around I'm going to be using a new tool to help me trace the pattern for stitching. I've ordered a light box which should be very helpful to have on hand for transferring patterns, especially as fall and winter in the Pac NW becomes it's usual overcast self (i.e. dark). ; ) As I wait patiently for it to arrive, I've been auditioning pearl cotton colors to stitch with in the meantime. I think this pattern will look particularly festive paired with some bright jewel tones on a neutral linen background.
For those of you who like to embroider, what's your favorite way to transfer patterns? Do you use a sunny window or a light box? Transfer paper perhaps? Or do you prefer iron-on transfers?
The only embroidery I have done was when I drew it on the fabric with a pencil - otally incorrect but it worked. I think a light box or window is preferable! Look forward to seeing what you come up with Jenelle - sure to be lovely.
ReplyDeleteThis will probably sound crazy, but I free hand most of what I embroider. Unless the pattern is very complicated. I think though that a lightbox or window works best for transferring. In fact I am planning on starting your owl tonight and I'll most likely use the window tomorrow morning for transfer.
ReplyDeleteI usually trace the pattern holding it up against the window or door, if possible, a light box would be wonderful to have. I have also done the iron on transfers, they work fine to. Can't wait to see what you are making :)
ReplyDeleteI prefer to use a light box and trace the designs. I dont like to use the iron on transfers beause if you move it just slightly you can end up with a horrible thicker line :( I trace using a Micra Pigment pen with a .25 tip. Enjoy your embroidery. hugs
ReplyDeleteI've never done embroidery with pearl cotton! I have a ton of it and should give it a try.
ReplyDeleteI love the bright colors you selected. I look forward to seeing what it will become!!
Only a few more days of sunshine for us!! Enjoy window tracing while you still can :).
Okay, so mine is a little out there, but I open up the pattern on my laptop or my tablet and place the fabric on top of the screen (flattening out the laptop if I am using that), and very carefully and lightly draw onto the fabric without pressing into the screen. It has been fine so far!
ReplyDeleteAnd by "open the pattern" I mean if it's a PDF that I've downloaded, I load it. Though I'm sure it would work to spread a piece of paper over the screen as well.
DeleteOoh, if the drawing under your fabric is the new pattern it looks wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI usually use a window, which as you say can be pretty tough here in the gloomy. Or with dark fabric. So a lot of the time I just end up sketching the pattern as closely as I can.
I just discovered transfer paper this year, and man it's changed my life! I used to just wing it or draw freehand first.
ReplyDeleteI've used all three methods but I love the ease of using iron on transfers.
ReplyDeleteI tried the transfer paper and wasn't happy with the results... So I took a small/med size clear rubbermaid box and a 'fancy' flashlight and made my own light box. I really liked the results, but am nervous about how well the water soluble pen will wash out.
ReplyDeleteDo you launder your embroidery once you are done with them? And how do you do it?
I love your colours and it looks like a cute whimsical design under there! I don't do embroidery so don't have any opinions, but what you do always turns out so cute.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see the pattern! I love using Sulky Fabri-solvy stabilizer to transfer my patterns. You can print an image directly on it from your computer and then stick it on your fabric. Stitch right through it and then rinse it away, easy-peasy!
ReplyDeleteCarrie
Thesimpson5@twlakes.net
Can't wait to see your new design. I just use a sunny window but would love a light box one day.
ReplyDeleteOh I use a lightbox all the time! I got it way back when I scrapbooked because you were meant to use them for embossing. I never used it for that, but I've been using it for years to transfer patterns from paper to other mediums like template plastic and fabric
ReplyDeletewill be looking forward to seeing your new design!
ReplyDeleteI use paper and pin it too the fabric then sew over it and peel it off after =D
I use transfer paper, though I think iron-on would be nice to try!
ReplyDeleteI will put my 12x12 ruler over my desk lamp (with an efficient bulb, the incandescent melt the plastic!) and trace over that - or trace from my computer monitor...which is probably bad for the monitor but I haven't run into trouble yet.
ReplyDeleteI almost always use a standard mechanical pencil for embroidery patterns and quilting design...have fun stitching! A light box sounds fabulous!
I want to invest in a light box and until I do, I use a window. Even on most overcast days, there usually is enough light to trace through a lighter colored fabric. I haven't embroidered on dark fabrics yet and would probably freehand the design.
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