Five Things I Wish I’d Known When I Started Embroidery
When I first started stitching, I thought embroidery was all about following the pattern perfectly. Over time — through teaching, designing kits, and learning alongside my students — I’ve realised it’s really about slowing down, experimenting, and enjoying the process.
If you’re new to embroidery (or returning after a break), here are five things I wish I’d known from the beginning.
1. Embroidery is surprisingly mindful
One thing I didn’t expect when I began stitching was how calming it could be.
The gentle repetition of stitches, the focus on your hands, and the slow rhythm of making can be incredibly grounding. Even a few minutes of embroidery can help quiet a busy mind and bring you back into the present moment.
You don’t need to stitch for hours — five or ten minutes is often enough to feel the benefit.
2. You don’t have to prick and pounce every design
Traditional embroidery often uses methods like prick and pounce to transfer patterns to fabric — and while it’s a beautiful, historic technique, it isn’t the only option.
These days, I often use heat-erasable pens (such as Frixion-style pens) to transfer designs quickly and accurately. Once the stitching is finished, a little heat removes the lines, leaving just your embroidery behind.
It’s a simple, modern alternative that makes starting a project feel much more approachable.
3. How to separate stranded cotton
Most stranded cotton comes in six strands — but you don’t have to use them all together.
Using fewer strands creates softer lines and more delicate detail, while using more strands gives bolder shapes and added texture. There’s no right or wrong approach — experimenting with different numbers of strands is one of the easiest ways to change the look and feel of your embroidery.
To separate the threads, hold all six strands together between your thumb and forefinger. With your other hand, slowly pull one strand upwards and away from the rest of the threads. The remaining strands will naturally fall back into place. This method helps avoid tangles and knots.
Once you’ve separated the strands, bring them back together in a different order before threading your needle. Mixing up the order allows the threads to sit more smoothly and gives better stitch coverage.
Trying different combinations is all part of learning your own stitching style.
4. A tight hoop makes everything easier
Keeping your fabric taut in the hoop makes a huge difference to how your stitches sit. If the fabric is loose, stitches can look uneven and the surface can pucker.
Before you start stitching, take a moment to pull the fabric until it feels drum-tight, and don’t be afraid to re-tighten as you go. It’s a small habit that leads to calmer stitching and neater results.
5. Let go of perfection and enjoy the stitching
This was the hardest lesson for me.
Embroidery isn’t about producing something flawless. It’s about taking time, working with your hands, and letting the process be what it is. Every stitch teaches you something, and small imperfections are part of what makes handmade work special.
When you stop aiming for perfect, stitching becomes calmer, more enjoyable, and far more creative.
