New to punch embroidery? Fear not - we have come up with a list of 6 tips to help you become a needle punch master in no-time. Punch embroidery is not only a blast, it's an excellent stress-reliever and is super quick to pick up. It's essentially as easy as drawing a picture - even easier if you are using a pre-traced pattern! So settle in and read on. We hope you enjoy this post and that you love punch embroidery as much as we do!
Photo via Llueve Diamantina
1. Experiment With Textures To Create Depth and Dimension
When you first begin needle punching you might want to start with small, uniform loops. That being said, once you get comfortable with the punch needle, we encourage you to start playing with texture by mixing up your loop sizes and trying different threads! For example, stitch a fluffy bunny with big cotton loops or create the illusion of shadow and light by varying the loop sizes as you go. It may take a little trial and error but texture adds depth and dimension to an otherwise simple design.
Photo via Boho Artisan on Instagram - @bohoartisan
2. Draw Your Pattern Onto Your Fabric In Reverse
This may seem counter-intuitive, but you want to trace your design onto your fabric (using a fabric pencil or marker) in reverse. While you are needle punching, you will have one side with flat stitches and one side with your lovely loops. Intuitive embroidering would have your loops appear on the backside of your fabric. In order to make sure your loops are on the front, you have to draw your design on in reverse of how you want it to appear on your fabric.
3. Avoid Frustration & Choose The Right Fabric For Your Punch Needle Size
Sure, you absolutely can get creative with the materials you punch embroidery on, but tightly woven yet flexible fabric works best and prevents your loops from looking sloppy. If the weave is too open, your stitches may slip out - not what you want! Don't be afraid to experiment with different fabrics (for example, denim) but if you are just beginning, it's best to stick with a tightly woven fabric with a little bit of stretch.
Photo via Boho Artisan on Instagram - @bohoartisan
4. Get Creative With Your 'Thread'
Think you are limited to traditional embroidery floss when punch needling? Think again! Experiment with different fibers, weights, and materials - some stitchers have even punch needled with ribbon! What's fantastic about punch embroidery is that it is an easy art-form to learn and once you learn the basics, it's so much fun to bend the rules and play!
Photos via Duftin
5. Get Your Feet Wet With A Punch Embroidery Kit
It can be overwhelming learning a new craft and a kit is a great way to start without having to ask a lot of questions or source all of your materials from different places. The Punch By Number Embroidery kits from Duftin come with the pre-stamped and pre-finished fabric, mouline and instructions. All you need is a punch needle (like this adjustable needle fromCreativ Company) and you are on your way! You'll feel like a punch embroidery expert once you are done and will be rewarded with a stylish tote and pillow. Win-win!
6. Up-Cycle Tired Garments Or Home Furnishings With Punch Embroidery
We love up-cycling and believe that almost anything can be revived and made new again with a little bit of creativity. Whether its a dated looking garment, a blah looking bag or a worn-out set of towels, a touch of punch embroidery is a quick and easy way to refresh your formerly favourite items. A little warning though, we bet that once you start, you are going to want to punch embroider everything!
Shop our selection of punch embroidery supplies from Clover, Duftin and Creativ Company!
Do you have any questions or comments? We would love to hear from you! Chat with us in the comment section or send us a message at sales@njeffersonltd.com.
Comments