by Tyler Elks
Amongst the many kits I’ve tried at Ignite Studio, none stole my heart as quickly as the embroidery kit. I felt immediately inspired to try all sorts of designs, and it was simple enough to get started while leaving plenty of room to continue growing and exploring the craft. To inspire you, here are 8 unique embroidery projects to try out.
History of Embroidery
Image credit: Patricia Ebrey (1999) “Chinese Silk 4th Century BC”
Embroidery has been around for a long time–the oldest piece found dates to between the 5th and 3rd centuries BCE. Embroidery is found in many cultures in Asia, the Middle East, the Balkans, and Europe as well. Embroidery is the art of decorating fabric by using a needle and thread. Beads and other small objects are sometimes sewn in to bolster the design. There are also many types of embroidery, including but not limited to crewel embroidery, cross stitch, and thread painting.
8 Unique Embroidery Projects
Making Maps
Image credit: Janis Marshall
This craft makes for a great present and shows that you’re thinking of someone. Want to remember a special place? Perhaps your home, the place you met the love of your life, or a place you hope to visit someday. Choose from a topographical map, road map, or nautical map and start stitching! You can find a photo by using a map site (such as google maps) and simplifying the design to fit into your embroidery hoop.
Out of Pocket
Imaged credit: flynn_and_mabel on Instagram
Spice up your wardrobe with this out-of-pocket yet totally in-fashion idea! Using your embroidery skills, style your clothes by adding a bit of needlework to any old pocket, making it look like you have a pocket full of posies, a cute little stowaway, or a lovely nature scene.
Step Up your Shoe Game
Image credit: Brown Paper Bag
Walk with style and confidence knowing you’ve added something unique and fun to your kicks! You can get really creative with the color and shape of your work. Embroider plants, stars, animals, or whatever you’d like; just make sure you use canvas shoes.
Out of This World Constellation Tote Bag
Image credit: Lauren Fairweather
If you’re a fan of stars and sustainable fashion, try out this constellation tote bag! You could also embroider planets or galaxies. These designs could be as simplistic or as intricate as you please–either way you’ll be over the moon about your new project!
Picturesque Polaroid Frame
Image credit: hanhsquadron on reddit
Keep your memories visible and vibrant by framing them in beautiful embroidery. You can add flowers, hearts, or keep it simple with a minimalistic border.
Playing Koi (Pond)
Image credit: Embroiderers’ Guild of America
Make a three-dimensional art piece by layering your embroidery to create a koi fish pond! You could also do this with an ocean scene, swamp, or fish bowl! For more 3D inspiration, check out this post by Koel Magazine.
The Minimalist
Image credit: Lia Griffith on Youtube
Not everyone wants to sport big and bold creations. If this sounds like you then don’t worry! You can still get creative with some minimal embroidery designs such as plants, fun phrases, and more.
If you’d like to start out your embroidery journey but aren’t sure where to begin, come check out our embroidery kit here at Ignite Studio. Hope to see you there and happy stitching!
