Needlework tips and techniques - stitch by stitch

Are you hooked on needlework like me? Keen to learn more? Or an absolute beginner?

Whether you are hoping to master basic embroidery stitches or create an heirloom, I am delighted to help by offering tutorials, videos, inspiring ideas, and downloadable projects.

If you are new to embroidery, you may choose to start by reading the equipment section to learn about the threads, hoops, needles, fabrics and other items you use in this timeless craft.

Another great jumping off point is the stitch index which covers a wide variety of stitches with instructions and step-by-step photos. But don't stop there! Each page gives ideas for how to use its specific stitch to create elements in your needlework projects.

Or you can choose to watch my short videos to see how different stitches are formed and used.

If you prefer to jump in and try a project straight away, hop over to the free tutorial list.

If you already have some experience, browse the patterns in my shop. I offer patterns you can either frame or make into bellpulls, needlecases, pinchushions, pillows or even into a chessboard. You can use them to decorate your own home or give them as gifts.

Begin simple and develop your skills and knowledge. You may discover that you find one form of embroidery more relaxing than another. Try out a variety, before deciding on your favourite.

Where is the design?

How do you know where to place your stitches?

You have two main options here...

You can transfer your pattern onto the fabric using a variety of methods
You can follow a pattern plotted out on graph paper (counted thread)

Which method you prefer is a personal thing, so let's look at the advantages of both.

Transferred designs

Photo of strawberry worked in lazy daisy stitch

Printed outlines are actual size. There is no guesswork involved. You can place a transfer on a pocket and know it will fit at a glance.

The outline defines the size of each element, such as a leaf or eye, so you know the finished piece will be in proportion.

Many patterns presented in this manner also have an instruction sheet telling you which stitch to work in which area.

You don't have to stick to the instruction sheet every time. You are at liberty to be more creative and choose your own stitches to fill each area, and you will find plenty of ideas for doing this on the site.

Counted thread techniques

Photo of two pieces of counted thread embroidery

Cross stitch on 14 count Aida and 40 count silk gauze

But what if you buy a kit and the fabric is blank? Where on earth do you start?

You work these designs from charts plotted on graph paper.

In a counted cross stitch pattern each square will represent a stitch that contains a symbol telling you which colour of thread to use.

For some counted thread techniques, such as Hardanger, you will read the lines on the graph as fabric threads. It is then obvious how many threads to work each stitch over.

You can change the size of a design by choosing a fabric with a different number of threads per inch (or cm).

Ready to stitch?

Clicking on the links below will take you to the main hub page for each needlework technique. There you will find further links for more detailed information and projects you can try yourself.