How to Sew an Emblem

Emblems inspire appreciation and conversation.

Possibly the best thing about sewing a fabric emblem is finishing the job, since an emblem usually represents an accomplishment. Sewing it on in a prominent place, such as a lapel or a sleeve, effectively puts it on display for everyone to see -- and appreciate. Depending on your comfort level, you can hand sew or use a sewing machine to sew on an emblem.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Straight pins
• Thread
• Sewing needle

Instructions

Hand Sewing

1. Cut out the emblem, leaving ¼-inch all around. Machine stitch around the seam line. Fold under the seam allowance on the emblem and pin it into place.

2. Choose the color of thread to suit the look you wish to achieve. If you want the stitching to blend in, choose a thread color that matches the edges of the emblem. Pick a contrasting thread color if you want the stitching to stand out.

3. Thread your needle and prepare to sew on the emblem with a cross stitch, which is actually two stitches. Make a row of even stitches slanting in one direction. Then cross each stitch at the midpoint with another row of stitches that slant in the opposite direction.

Machine Sewing

1. 

   Precision counts with emblems, so stitch slowly.

   Choose one of three ways to machine sew your emblem. For the first method, pin or baste the emblem in place. Set your sewing machine for a close (tight) satin stitch and stitch around the seam line of the emblem. Trim any extra fabric close to the stitching line.

2. Pin or baste the emblem in place, allowing ¼-inch around the emblem. Stitch around the seam line, using a regular machine stitch. Trim the extra fabric close to the stitching line. Stitch over the raw edges of the fabric and the line of stitching with a close (tight) satin stitch.

3. Set your machine for a zigzag stitch. Follow directions in the previous step up to and after the trimming step. But instead of stitching over the raw edges of the fabric with a satin stitch, use a zigzag stitch for added visual interest.

Tips & Warnings

• Rather than pinning and basting an emblem in place, some people prefer to apply a spray adhesive to the emblem before sewing. This can be a viable alternative, depending on the strength of the adhesive. If the spray produces a weak hold, the emblem may wiggle around as you attempt to permanently affix it.

References

• "Singer Sewing Step by Step"; The Editors of the Singer Sewing Reference Library; 1990