A common theme in embroidery designs are flowers, and other elements such as sky and grass. Despite the fact that we see these elements in nature every day, most of us have trouble choosing the right thread colours for these elements. Below are some hints that should help you master this technique.

One of the most common questions that I get asked is why the designs that I sell/advertise look different to those stitched by customers. More often than not, the answer is simple – its thread choice!

Multi-tonal threads are a wonderful addition to our embroidery thread collection, but if you are like many embroiders, you will purchase this fantastic product, and then the threads will wait for months in your stash waiting for a design that will suit them. Below are a few tips and suggestions for picking the right designs for multi-tonal threads.

Have you ever wished you could anchor or glue a neckline in place so it wouldn’t slip and slide around unattractively? Dream no more. You can apply some hidden techniques from haute couture to accomplish the same result and ensure that the neckline will maintain its position without shifting or gaping.

Claire Shaeffer from Vogue Patterns magazine shares her tips to making the perfect neckline.

A Valentino favorite, elastic shoulder pad stays are another useful device for controlling the neckline. The elastic is inserted into a narrow silk tube, with the ends of the tube sewn to the front and back of the shoulder pad to form a loop that fi ts snugly but not tightly under the arm. I frequently use these stays to control the necklines. Surprisingly, they are not uncomfortable.

Claire Shaeffer from Vogue Patterns magazine shares her tips to making the perfect neckline.