Inspirational Hoop - Free sewing patterns

This project uses seed stitch to create a pretty cloud design with inspirational words below in split stitch. Hang it with ribbon to instantly brighten up a room.One of a family of detached stitches, seed stitch is useful for covering an area of a motif with pattern and texture. The name refers to the fact that they resemble small seeds. They are best worked on an opaque fabric, as the thread is carried across the back of the work and if it is too fine or transparent, threads will show through from the front.

Essentials

Pale blue linen, 30cm square
Embroidery hoop, 26cm diameter
Six stranded embroidery thread, white, navy
Silver metallic embroidery thread
Crewel needle
Coordinating ribbon, 50cm

Dimensions List

26cm diameter

Stitch a hoop

Download the template. Print and trace onto paper. Transfer the design onto the fabric. Centring it in an embroidery hoop.
Thread a crewel needle with metallic thread and outline the cloud shapes in blanket stitch. Thread the needle with three strands of white embroidery thread and work a line of split stitch outside the one you have just made, following the top edge of the blanket stitch very closely.
Fill in the cloud shapes with seed stitches, arranging them in different directions and ensuring they are evenly spaced throughout.
Thread the needle with three strands of navy embroidery thread and stitch the lettering in split stitch.On the narrow parts of the lines, work a single line of split stitch. On thicker areas, work additional lines of split stitch close together.
When the embroidery is complete, trim off any excess fabric around the outer edge,leaving a margin 3cm wide. Tuck this in neatly at the back of the frame, keeping it in place with a few stitches if necessary.Tie a length of ribbon to the brass screw on the frame and hang your artwork.