Embossed Embroidery

Add a three-dimensional look to your projects with embossed embroidery. The designs tamp down the fabric nap, and the negative space allows the design element to stand out for an eye-catching look.

Project Needs & Notes:

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- Terrycloth towel
- Medium-weight (2.5 ounce) cutaway stabilizer (such as Sulky's Cut Away Plus)

- Water-soluble stabilizer for topping (such as Sulky's Solvy)

Special Notes: A terrycloth towel is used in this example, but the technique works well on fleece and microfiber plush, too.

Cut a piece of medium-weight cutaway stabilizer a bit larger than the hoop.

Place the towel on top.

Place water-soluble stabilizer on top of the towel. This helps to prevent the stitches from sinking into the nap of the fabric.

Hoop all three layers together.

Embroider the design.

After embroidering, trim the excess cutaway stabilizer away from the back. Leave about 1/2" around the design.

Tear the excess water-soluble stabilizer away from the top of the towel. Use a damp sponge or tweezers to remove any small remaining pieces.

Embossed designs and monograms are particularly popular -- apply this style to pillows, blankets, fleece jackets, and more to add interest to your projects.

Try using variegated thread for a plaid stitching effect!