How to Make a Crewel Sampler

Crewel is a type of embroidery traditionally using loosely twisted worsted yarn, giving it more texture and dimension than silk or cotton. Samplers were often doodle cloths for practicing a variety of techniques. Make your own crewel sampler to learn the basic embroidery stitches, practice new stitches and experiment with creativity.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Crewel sampler kit or pattern
• Graph paper
• Twill or other sturdy fabric
• Scissors
• Wool yarn
• Embroidery needle
• Embroidery hoop

1. Buy a pre-packaged sampler. Most should have fabric with printed design, instructions, yarn and needle.
2. If you want to create you own design or can't find a pre-packaged sampler, look online or in books to find a pattern.
3. Use graph paper to transfer the design to a sturdy fabric like linen twill.
4. Buy the wool yarn, needle and scissors. You will also need hoop, so buy or borrow one. Choose the hoop size to fit the pattern size.
5. Practice using several different types of stitches. If you are a beginner, try basic stitches such as backstitch, seed stitch and chain stitch.
6. Think of crewel as being built up in layers. Work each part of the design from the furthest back forward. Leave the top surface of the design until after you have finished with what is behind it.
7. Try more complicated designs and stitches if you are experienced in other forms of embroidery.

Tips & Warnings

• Embroidery isn't quick. Have patience with yourself.
• Work on crewel embroidery in 20-minute increments so you can rest your eyes, shoulders, wrists and neck.
• Don't leave threads hanging at the back, or they might get tangled.

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