Embroidered Details on a Denim Jacket or Tote Bag

What you will learn

• Embroidering a finished item
• Working on thick fabric
• Durable finishing

Materials and tools

• Denim jacket or canvas tote, washed and dried
• Embroidery needle size 3 to 5, or chenille needle size 22
• Floss or pearl cotton size 8
• Thimble
• Small hoop, 4 in (10 cm), if it fits the area
• Chalk pencil, or water-soluble stabilizer for the design
• Embroidery scissors

Template

1. Choose a spot you can reach from behind with one hand: a tote front, the back yoke, above a chest pocket, a collar point. Avoid stitching a pocket shut.
2. Draw the design with a chalk pencil. On dark denim, draw it on water-soluble stabilizer, stick it in place and stitch through it.
3. Hoop the area if you can. If not, hold the fabric flat over your fingers. Denim is firm enough to stitch in the hand.
4. Stitch the main lines in backstitch or stem stitch using 3 or more strands so they stand out on the heavy weave. Use the thimble to push the needle.
5. Add flowers with lazy daisy stitches and French knots. Keep every stitch under 3/8 in (1 cm) so nothing can snag.
6. Start and finish by weaving under at least four stitches and doubling back. Do not rely on knots alone.
7. Rinse away stabilizer or brush off chalk. Let it dry flat.

Tips for a neat result

• On a tote, slip a piece of card inside so you cannot catch the back layer.
• Pearl cotton size 8 has a firm twist that wears well on clothes.

Common mistakes and fixes

Check your result

• No stitch is longer than 3/8 in (1 cm).
• Ends are woven in and do not pull loose when tugged.

Finishing and care

• Wash inside out on a gentle cycle and air dry.
• Iron on the wrong side over a towel.