How to Transfer Embroidery Patterns to Fabric

Embroidery patterns add a look of elegance to ordinary items.

Embroidery patterns are basically outline art drawings. They vary greatly in style and complexity to appeal to different tastes in fashion or decorating. You can transfer embroidery patterns onto many types of fabrics then embroider them by hand. Transferring embroidery designs onto clothing and home linens gives plain items an entirely new look. It is a great way to change an inexpensive pair of jeans or pillow case into something that looks exclusive.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric or fabric item
• Iron (optional)
• Printed copy of embroidery design
• Dressmaker's carbon paper
• Straight pins
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Smooth out the fabric until it lays flat. Iron out wrinkles if needed.

2. Lay the sheet of dressmaker's carbon paper over the desired area of the fabric.

3. Position the printed copy of the embroidery design, printed side up, on top of the carbon paper.

4. Pin the carbon paper and copied embroidery design onto the fabric to prevent shifting.

5. Trace with the pencil over the lines of embroidery design. Use a slightly dull pencil to prevent the pencil lead from poking through the paper.

6. Lift up the papers gently to ensure the entire design has been transferred. Go over areas that were missed before unpinning the papers from the fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• Simple designs are suited for those just learning embroidery as they are easier to transfer and stitch.

• Use white dress maker's carbon paper to transfer designs onto dark fabric.

References

• University of Arizona College of Education: Stitchery Unit Lesson Plan
• Urban Threads: Hand Embroidery Transfer Methods

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish