My 5 Favorite Embroidery Supplies

Since I covered my five favorite sewing supplies yesterday, I thought I should take a look at my embroidery supplies today

Since I do both machine and hand-embroidery, but covered sewing yesterday – I’m just going to share my 5 favorite hand-embroidery supplies in this post.

In no particular order…

1. A good embroidery hoop – I have very particular likes and dislikes when it comes to embroidery hoops.  I plastic hoops that are between 4″ and 6″ across (I find that larger hoops strain my wrists), that adjusts with a screw (I don’t like spring hoops) and one that has a “lip” on the inner edge.  Yes, I am particular, but I’m so much happier with a hoop that holds the correct tension and doesn’t strain my arms.
2. Good light source – don’t strain your eyes by embroidering in bad light.  It’s just not worth the headaches and eyestrain.
3. Sharp scissors – it’s so frustrating to try and snip the floss or thread off at the surface of the fabric, and end up shredding it.
4. The right needle – different types of embroidery need different kinds of needles.  You don’t need to spend a mint on them, but the proper kind of needle will make your embroidery so much more enjoyable.
5. Good quality floss, thread or wool – cheap fibers can shred, lose color, bleed in the wash and break more easily.  You don’t need to buy the most expensive stuff out there, but I’ve rarely had good luck with dollar store floss.

image: Stock.xchg