Sewing a design with satin stitch is like painting with thread, filling areas of a motif so that the fabric beneath does not show through. It's best to use a hoop when working this stitch, to ensure a neat, even result. It is also important not to make stitches too long, especially on items that will be handled frequently, as they have a tendency to snag. This colourful floral motif was created with satin stitch to embellish this Mexican-inspired peasant-style top, which was sewn from linen using View C of New Look pattern 6027. To save time, you could buy a ready-made top – just ensure that it has a similar plain flat panel or yoke.
Stitch a summer top
1 If using a blouse pattern, trace around the front yoke and cut a template from card. Place this on white linen and draw around it. Flip the template over and draw around it again, to create two front yoke pieces. Cut these out roughly, allowing a good margin of fabric all round. If you are embellishing a ready-made blouse, simply embroider directly onto your chosen section.
2 Download and print the motif by clicking the but