Tutorial 07: Stitching stylized flower

To stitch the petals you'll use three colors of cotton thread (tropical blue, pale yellow and vivid red). To stitch the stem you'll use a deep green cotton thread. 

The difference between even-weave and plainweave fabrics

The difference between several fabrics that are used in embroidery relates to how each type is woven and how those fibers are spaced.

In general, a typical fabric is woven on a loom, where the horizontal threads (weft threads) are woven across the vertical threads (warp threads), in an over and under fashion. If fabric contains the same number of warp and weft threads per inch then it is called even-weave. Canvas is a type of even-weave fabric whose holes are larger that the threads that separate them. If fabric does not contain the same number of warp and weft threads is called plainweave. 

The difference between free embroidery, needlepoint and cross stitch

The word embroidery is used to describe any kind of decorative needlework on fabric, that involves threads and needle. The term encompasses many different types of needlework like applique, cut-work, free stitching, cross-stitch etc.

The term free embroidery (or free-hand embroidery) describes the style of needlework that involves applying several decorative stitches to fabric without using the fabric's weave as a guide. The typical process is the following: At first, the stitcher draws the pattern on the fabric using pencil, carbon paper, erasable marker etc and then he/she stitches the pattern with threads and needle. The length of each stitch might be slightly different since the stitcher relies on his/her experienced eye. Suitable fabrics for free-hand embroidery are cotton, linen, silk and others.

Free embroidery or plain embroidery

Types of needles

Different types of stitching require different types of needles. These are the most common types.

• Tapestry needles: These needles are characterized by large eyes and blunt ends and they are suitable for needlepoint, cross stitch and drawn thread work. The large eye let them carry a heavier weight yarn, such as wool yarn. The blunt tip allows them to pass through the loosely woven canvas without catching or tearing the threads. So, this type of needle is suitable for those types of needlework in which the point of the needle is not meant to pierce the fabric. Sizes ranges from 28 (the smallest) to 13 (largest). 

How to clean your needlework

How to wash your needlework by hand. 
1. In a bowl, mix a mild detergent with enough room- temperature water. Dissolve the detergent.
2. Submerge your piece in the water.
3. If the piece is filthy enough, soak it for a half hour or so. Otherwise a few minutes will do. If there is a stubborn stain use a soft brush or a sponge to gently scrub the spot.
4. Rinse the piece, by placing it under cold water.
5. Do not wring out your piece. To remove excess water roll the fabric up in a clean towel and gently squeeze out the excess water.
6. Unroll the towel and lay your piece on it.
7. Allow it to air dry.

If you fail to clean a stubborn stain, then you can take your piece to a dry cleaner- preferably one that has experience cleaning such items.

How to iron your needlework. 
1. Place a clean white towel on your ironing board.
2. Lay your piece face down on the towel.
3. With a dry iron on a medium setting iron the piece.
Note: For better result you can start ironing when the piece is a bit damp.