How to Embroider Underwear

Embroidery stitches can be used to embellish underwear for a special occasion.

Embroidering underwear is a simple project that can be done using a very basic embroidery stitch and a simple design to create a special undergarment. A whimsical design or a simple animal might be fitting for a child, while a flowery pattern might be a nice choice for a bride-to-be. With a simple stitch, like the stem stitch, you can even create days of the week underwear -- embroidering Monday through Sunday on seven pairs for a friend or family member.

Things You'll Need

• Embroidery pattern
• Transfer paper
• Embroidery thread
• Basic sewing kit

Instructions

1. Lay the underwear you have chosen to embroider out on a flat work surface.

2. Create your own design on transfer paper or print a design from the internet on transfer paper. Lay the transfer paper with the design on it, design side down and quickly run a hot iron over it. This will transfer the line drawing that you will embroider onto the underwear.

3. Embroider the design using a simple stitch like the stem stitch. The stem stitch looks like a rope and will create a solid line. This effect can be heightened if you angle each stitch slightly. Bring the needle up just to one side of the pattern line and then take it down just over the other side. As well as making a slightly wider line, it helps to cover up any of the pattern drawn on the fabric.

4. Be sure to knot the embroidery thread on the inside of the underwear when the stitching is completed.

5. Add more stitch types as you become more confident. Embroidery can use a variety of stitches, which are relatively simple to learn.

References

• Martha Stewart: Freehand Embroidery
• Readymade; Homemade Heirloom Linens; Lily Kane; November 2010
• Embroidery Library Projects: Embroidering on Jeans