How to Monogram a Handkerchief
Monogrammed handkerchiefs are reminiscent of long-gone days. In the past, handkerchiefs were purposeful, but they were also beautiful, with embroidery or elegant monograms. You can monogram handkerchiefs with your own initials or someone else's for gift giving. Embroidering a monogram takes some time but makes an heirloom to pass down to future generations.
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Things You'll Need
- Handkerchiefs
- Tracing paper
- Pencil or quilter's pen
- Embroidery needle
- Embroidery thread
- Embroidery hoop
- Scissors
Instructions
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1
Purchase handkerchiefs for monogramming. You'll need handkerchiefs that are made of heavier material because thin fabric pulls and tears when you try to create a monogram.
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2
Choose what letters you want to monogram. You can use just your last initial or all three initials.
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Find the type of script you want to use for your monogram. These can be copied offline, from your computer fonts or out of books that specialize in monogramming embroidery. Use a Script or Delano font for a traditional monogramming look.
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4
Decide which part of the handkerchief you want your monogram on. The two traditional places are the center or in a corner.
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Find the center of the section to which you are embroidering your monogram, whether it's the middle of the piece or the corner. Transfer the design to your handkerchief using a sharp pencil or quilting fabric pen. Perfectly center the traced initials before you stitch.
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Insert your handkerchief into an embroidery hoop and pull tightly. Follow the outline of your monogram design using a satin stitch. Go back and forth over the design, making sure your stitches are even and smooth.
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Pull your leftover thread through to the back of the handkerchief when you're finished with the embroidery. Insert the needle just under the stitches on the back of the piece and pull the thread all the way up through the letter stitching. Trim any excess thread. This holds everything in place without leaving a knot.
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Tips & Warnings
Use the same techniques to monogram linen napkins and tablecloths.
Add an outline to your monogram with a contrasting thread to add more color. Adding an outline helps if your stitches are a little uneven on the sides, covering up any unevenness.
Check that the stitches on the back of your fabric are just as neat as the front, since both sides are visible.
