Embroidery Supplies and Equipment

To enjoy needlework, you need the right embroidery supplies and equipment — and somewhere to keep them together.

Here are the tools and materials I can't live without in my sewing box. Each card below links to a detailed guide where you can learn more.

Fabrics, Threads and Needles

Hoops, Scissors and More

Embroidery Scissors

You need sharp embroidery scissors.

I'm always shocked by the scissors students bring to my class. Dressmaking shears? Kitchen scissors? Blunt scissors that chew thread? Get yourself a small, sharp pair with pointed blades that cut cleanly.

This is especially important if you're trying Hardanger or other cutwork techniques. Suggest scissors as a gift idea for family and friends who ask what you'd like!

Read more about embroidery scissors here →

Embroidery Frames

Traditional scroll frames

If you're not into hoops, there are lots of scroll frames to choose from. They're traditionally for needlepoint, but they work brilliantly for embroidery too. They have wooden rollers on top and bottom with webbing strips attached, and side pieces that stretch the fabric. You can get them in different sizes.

You need bars wider than your fabric. The length of the side pieces doesn't matter because you'll wind the excess fabric around the top and bottom bars.

Use strong thread to tack your fabric to each webbing strip. Wind the extra fabric around one or both bars so you can reach where you're stitching.

Counted thread work usually starts in the centre, so wind an equal amount onto both bars. You can also lace the fabric edges to the side bars to keep it under tension.

Slate frames work well for keeping fabric tight while stitching. Fit your design inside the frame because you pin down the fabric and can't roll it around the bars.

Modern frames

Modern frames eliminate the need for stitching your fabric to webbing. They have slots in the top and bottom bars — the fabric goes over the slots and a wooden dowel holds it tight.

Another type uses four plastic tubes that snap together at the corners. The fabric goes over the tubes and snap-on covers keep it in place.

No matter what hoop or frame you use, remember to loosen the work after each stitching session to avoid stretching the fabric.

Lap Frames and Floor Stands

Lap frames

Holding a hoop or frame can tire your non-stitching hand.

A lap frame or floor stand supports the frame and frees up both hands for stitching. Lap frames come in two types: one with a fixed hoop or frame, and another with a clamp that fits any size hoop or frame. This makes the work easier and faster.

Floor stands

I often use a sturdy wooden or metal floor stand for stitching.

Some stands have spots to attach accessories like lamps, magnifiers, chart holders, or magnets. The magnet is wonderful for keeping your threaded embroidery needles in place for later use.

An excellent stand will last for years without needing to be replaced. If it looks nice, you can leave it out as furniture between stitching sessions.

Lighting

I love good illumination. I have three lamps for sewing. They let me stitch anytime, anywhere without picking up the wrong coloured embroidery thread. If we ever meet, ask me about the foxes!

I've got a big lamp on my desk with a daylight bulb. It's perfect for shining light on my needlework. When I don't want to bother my husband while he's watching TV, or when I'm out of the house, I use a small lamp that clips onto my hoop.

My favourite is the lamp magnifier with an LED ring light and magnifying glass. These are perfect if you always stitch in one room. But it's heavy, so I don't carry it around.

Read my complete guide to choosing a magnifying lamp →

Browse craft lamps on Amazon (affiliate link)

Magnifiers

As I get older, a magnifier is handy for my embroidery work.

Many of my students use a magnifying glass that hangs around the neck (affiliate link) and has little "feet" that stand on their chest. Some also have a light.

I tried them, but they didn't work for me. I kept losing focus on the fabric when I moved, and the magnifier kept slipping, so I had to keep adjusting it. They might work for you though, and they're economical.

I like my magnifier up close. There are a few ways to do this. Clip-on magnifiers for glasses work. But I prefer Mag Eyes.

As you can see in the picture, this headband magnifier sits comfortably on your forehead, keeping the lenses at an ideal distance from your eyes. Hinged arms let you push the lenses up out of the way when you don't need them.

MagEyes headband magnifier

Is Your Workbox Ready?

To complete your embroidery supplies, keep a tape measure or ruler and dressmaking shears nearby for measuring and cutting fabric. If you use embroidery floss and beads, have a storage system to keep them organized.

Embroidery is a beautiful and intricate art that rewards you for using the right tools. Before you start, think about picking the right fabric and needles, and using frames or stands for support. Don't forget good lighting and magnification so you can see what you're doing.

With these supplies at your fingertips, you'll be able to create stunning embroidery pieces that show off your artistic skills and technical know-how.