How to: Embroidery Pattern for Pillow Cases

Select or create a pattern that suits the overall room decor or theme.

Embroidered pillowcases can add a special touch to any room. They can be monogrammed, or pick up on another design element in the room. By designing a custom pattern, color choices can match exactly to other colors in the room. Another idea is to use a thread that matches the pillowcase itself, which creates an elegant look. While embroidery and needlework are not as common as they once were, needleworkers do not have to rely on finding old patterns to stitch. Here is a way to make a pattern that is as individual as the person stitching it.

Things You'll Need

• Blank papers
• Pencil
• Fine tip marker
• Transfer pencil
• Iron
• Pillowcases

Instructions

Instructions

1. Study and think about the room the embroidered pillowcases will be in. What is the overall feel of the room? What colors are predominant? List these things, and think about how these pillowcases will add to the room.

2. Sketch a basic design for the pattern. At this point, concentrate on the overall shape; small details will follow. One classic element is to include a monogram. The monogram can be incorporated into the surrounding design. Put in vines, flowers, or fences to create a longer border for the edge of the pillowcase. One place to look for inspiration is wallpaper border catalogs. Since these borders use repeated motifs, they can be simplified to be part of an embroidery pattern.

3. Trace the edges of the sketch with a fine tipped black marker to make them stand out. These outlines become the stitching guides when sewing begins. Make two copies of the design. Fill in one copy with the small details, such as where French Knots will be used, or other stitch changes. This is also the copy to make notes about color on. Think of this as the sewing guide for the pattern.

4. Take the other copy and turn it over, so the reverse side is facing up. Use the transfer pencil and trace the black lines. Tape the sheet of paper to a window or glass door and let sunlight help if the black lines are too difficult to see otherwise. Make sure to draw the entire pattern on the back side of the copy with the transfer pencil.

5. Heat up the iron to the setting recommended for use on the pillowcase. Place the pattern copy with the transfer pencil tracing onto the pillowcase. The transfer pencil side goes down on the pillowcase. Iron the pattern onto the pillowcase. The heat of the iron melts the transfer pencil and marks the pillowcase. Any pencil that does not get covered with stitches will wash out. The pillowcase is now ready to be embroidered.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use caution when working with a hot iron.