| Many people assume that once an embroidery project | | | | in public? There are loads of floral, animal and abstract |
| is finished their only option is to hang it on the wall. And | | | | designs you can use to make a new statement. You |
| what's wrong with that? Embroidered pictures lend | | | | can even use embroidery to spark up notebook and |
| warmth and character to any room. But why stop with | | | | scrapbook covers. |
| the walls? You can take elements from the designs | | | | If you're new to embroidery you may want to start |
| used in the wall hangings and, with a little imagination, | | | | with an embroidery project kit. Kits are ideal for |
| create coordinating cushions and throw pillows that | | | | beginners because they come with pretty much |
| can really pull a room together. You can also stitch a | | | | everything you'll need to start stitching straightaway. |
| matching fire screen if the room boasts a fireplace. | | | | The instructions are straightforward and complete with |
| You can carry on in this manner by embroidering | | | | diagrams explaining how the stitches should be |
| matching designs on tablecloths, napkins and table | | | | executed. They also provide tips on the best way to |
| runners for the dining room. Throw in some | | | | complete the design and how to display it afterward. |
| hand-stitched coasters and placemats to complete the | | | | If you're more advanced and want to challenge |
| set. | | | | yourself, there are design charts and books that cover |
| Bedrooms can be enhanced by adding embroidery to | | | | just about any theme or concept imaginable. You can |
| pillow cases and duvet covers. You can do the same | | | | choose one complete design to stitch or you can mix |
| for bath towel sets also. The plain band that runs | | | | and match elements from different designs to create |
| across the bottom of towels is a handy place to add | | | | a whole new look. |
| names, monograms or nautical motifs. | | | | While embroidery supplies and kits can be found in |
| I think, though, the best pieces for embroidery | | | | craft shops and online stores, I prefer craft fairs. The |
| enhancement is baby items. Imagine the look of | | | | atmosphere is alive with creativity and they're |
| surprise and delight on the faces of new parents as | | | | populated by kindred spirits. You can see what the |
| they open your gift to find matching bibs, booties, sun | | | | latest offerings are in the world of embroidery and talk |
| hats, clothing and a beautiful afghan all lovingly | | | | to people who are experts in the field and get loads of |
| embroidered by you. These are the kinds of things that | | | | helpful advice. There are usually workshops that take |
| parents save from their children's babyhood and | | | | place throughout the day where you can hone your |
| become heirlooms. | | | | skills or try your hand at something new. Best of all, |
| Embroidery isn't just about creating new items. | | | | you can usually get a better price if you buy from the |
| Embroidery can be an inexpensive way to revive old | | | | exhibitors. |
| but 'still in good condition' items. Got a favourite shirt | | | | As you can see, there is more to free hand |
| that's looking a bit tired? Try stitching a new, a la mode | | | | embroidery than meets the eye. You can use it to |
| design to bring it up to date. Can't bear to part with | | | | create soft furnishings for the house, decorate clothing |
| your reliable, old tote bag but to ashamed to bring it out | | | | and accessories and keep your imagination alive. |