How to Transfer Embroidery Pieces Between Fabrics
In the world of crafting and textile arts, transferring embroidery pieces from one fabric to another can be a challenging yet rewarding task. With the right techniques and tools, you can effectively move intricate embroidery designs to a new supportive fabric, ensuring they remain intact and retain their beauty. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
Assess the Embroidery
Before beginning, it's essential to assess the type of embroidery and the stitches used. Delicate designs may require more careful handling. Take a moment to evaluate the complexity and structure of the embroidery to ensure that it can withstand the process of transfer.
Cut the Fabric
Once you've assessed the embroidery, the next step is to cut the fabric around the design. Use sharp scissors and cut carefully, leaving a small margin of fabric around the edges to prevent fraying. This is particularly important for delicate or thin fabrics.
Transfer to New Fabric
Placement
Position the embroidered piece on the new fabric where you want it to be. Ensure that the design is aligned correctly and that the fabric is properly tensioned to prevent any movements during stitching. Consider the structure and color of the new fabric to ensure that the embroidery will look good on it.
Stitching
You can either sew the embroidery on by hand or machine. If using a machine, choose a stitch that complements both the embroidery and the new fabric. A backstitch or a whipstitch is often a good choice for most fabrics. For more delicate fabrics, a running stitch might be preferable.
Secure the Edges
To prevent fraying, use a zigzag stitch or a serger along the edges of the embroidery piece. This will ensure that the edges are secure and the embroidery remains in place. For heavy embellishments such as beads, consider painting the back of the completed embroidery with a fabric glue or Modge Podge to seal the ground fabric into the embellishment. Choose a glue that is not water-soluble to ensure durability.
Finishing Touches
Once the embroidery is securely attached, you can add any additional embellishments or backing to finish the piece. This could include additional embroidery, appliques, or even a decorative backing to stabilize the piece further.
Ironing
Be careful when ironing as the heat can damage some types of embroidery. Use a low heat setting and a pressing cloth if necessary. This step is crucial to ensure that the embroidery remains intact and maintains its shape.
Creating Separate Appliques
If you're aiming to create a separate applique of needlework, consider using organza as a lighter and more flexible base fabric. Organza comes in a range of colors and can be painted to blend with the color of the target garment. Another option is to use a water-soluble clear film as an overlay to the organza, and transfer the pattern with a permanent pen. Once the stitching is complete, tear away the film and trim the organza to within a 1/8 inch of the embroidered edge.
Securing Heavy Embellishments
For heavy embellishments such as beads, painting the back of the completed embroidery with glue can help seal the ground fabric into the embellishment. Use a glue that is not water-soluble to ensure durability.
Inspiration and Resources
To get inspired and learn more embroidery techniques, check out Michelle Caragher, the embroideress for Game of Thrones. Her website is a fantastic resource for inspiration and includes a range of stitchery techniques. You can also search for embroidered applique on YouTube to watch a range of approaches and find one that fits your need and expertise.
By following these steps, you can effectively transfer embroidery pieces between fabrics while maintaining their integrity and appearance. Enjoy the creative process and the satisfaction of seeing your designs come to life on a new fabric!