How to Embroider an Initial Monogram
Personalize your fine linens with a hand-embroidered initial monogram. A set of monogrammed dinner or cocktail napkins makes a thoughtful gift for a new bride. Embroidered initials add a sweet touch to cotton handkerchiefs and make an elegant statement on a pair of fine pillowcases. If you can thread a needle, you can learn to embroider. This timeless sewing craft is a good project for a child over the age of 12.
Things You'll Need
- Embroidery needle #5
- Pearl cotton embroidery thread
- White cotton napkin
- Pencil
- Embroidery hoop, small size
- Scissors
Instructions
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1
Choose a favorite font on your computer's word processing program. Enlarge the font to the size desired and format bold the letters. A 36-font size works well. Type and print your monogram initials on standard white paper.
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2
Place the napkin on top of the printed monogram and trace the monogram on the cotton with a sharp pencil. Placing the paper and napkin on a window during the daylight will make the monogram image easier to see and trace.
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3
Insert the napkin in the embroidery hoop, making sure the fabric is smooth.
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4
Back stitch with two strands of embroidery thread through the initial monogram, inserting your needle through the front of your work to the back and returning to the front in a continuous down and up motion directly above your last stitch. Repeat throughout the entire initial monogram.
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5
Satin stitch over the back stitches on the initial monogram by sewing diagonal stitches close together across the letters and over the back stitches, making sure there are no breaks in the satin stitch surface.
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6
Hide your end knot by sliding your needle through the wrong side stitches to bury the knot and thread tail.
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Tips & Warnings
Using a thimble can improve the quality of your embroidery stitch, while protecting your fingers.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit cotons à broder image by martine wagner from Fotolia.com
