How to Apply Embroidery Work to a Pillow

An embroidered pillow adds style to any decor.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned embroider, applying embroidery work to a pillow is a fairly simple task, as long as the design is chosen according to your skill level. More importantly, it is a great way to add spice to an otherwise plain pillow. Embroidery work is often handed down through generations, making an embroidered pillow a special gift for birthdays, weddings and anniversaries.

Things You'll Need

• Pillow
• Seam ripper
• Embroidery needles
• Embroidery floss
• Embroidery pattern
• Embroidery hoop
• Transfer paper
• Iron
• Carbon paper
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Open a pillow's casing on one end with a seam ripper. Pull out the stuffing and iron the casing. Wash the casing, if necessary.

2. Use carbon paper to transfer your design to the transfer paper by layering: first the transfer paper, then the carbon paper, and the pattern on the top. Use a pencil to trace the lines of the pattern. Depending on the detail of your design, this may take some time. If originality is not key, purchase a pattern from the many types available already on transfer paper for more convenience. Transfer the design onto the pillow casing with an iron, setting the iron to the appropriate setting for the fabric type of your pillow casing. Follow the instructions included with the transfer paper.

3. Place the embroidery hoop around the area of the design you wish to start in. Decide on the style of embroidery you would like to use for your project. Some examples are: colcha, redwork, cross stitch and stumpwork. Choose the correct needles for your project and the embroidery floss you intend to use for the stitches. Embroider your design onto the pillow.

4. Replace the stuffing in the pillow casing and sew the end of the pillow closed with needle and thread. At this time, you have the option of closing the casing by means that will allow you to easily remove the casing for washing. Some options include snaps, hook and eye closures, buttons or a zipper.

Tips & Warnings

• If the casing becomes soiled during the embroidery process, wait to clean it until you have finished the project. Then hand-wash the finished casing with a mild detergent, rinse and line dry.

References

• Needlework Tips and Techniques; Want to Learn How to Embroider?

Resources

• Berlin Embroidery Designs; Hand Embroidery Techniques