Machine Embroidery:
Stamped, Stenciled & Stitched
Creating a Picture
A photograph of a field of flowers may inspire you to create a similar, realistic image. You have the perfect floral blossom stamp to use, but you need the rest of the flower.
Look through your embroidery collection. Can you find something to use for stems? Examine different designs; are there elements of a motif you can use?
Select a stencil that allows you to create leaves, grass and additional stems.
When you're creating a representation as opposed to an abstract image, careful placement--aligning stems with flower heads--is a key factor. Begin by dragging all your selected embroidery motifs into one design. If possible, use customizing software to position the motifs as desired within the area of a large hoop.
Save the design and print it out on paper. Lay the fabric over the design, and stamp the fabric in areas to complement the embroidery.
Next embroider the saved images; stencil to fill in added texture.
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As a Background
The easiest way to avoid the dreaded plopped-and-dropped look is to build from a background. This requires the least amount of planning but still looks cohesive because you're choosing similar or complementary images.
Begin with plain fabric. In a hue slightly darker than the fabric, stamp a design to create a tone-on-tone background that looks like a commercially printed fabric.
Next, embroider images that are just a little darker than the stamped images or that complement a coordinating fabric you plan to use in the project.
Continue building the design, adding stenciling with complementary paint colors. Don't be shy! Throw in a few appliquéd elements, and your finished project will shine with textural polish.
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