My self-imposed 28 day challenges have the purpose of working on a particular skill – either improving a skill I already have or exploring a new skill entirely. For February 2021, I chose embroidery.

I follow a number of embroidery artists on Instagram and have been so inspired by their work. Modern embroidery offers to many interesting possibilities.

I wanted my first project to be a sampler so I could practice a variety of stitches. I’ve done embroidery in the past, although not a lot. I do have numerous needle skills from years of quilting, cross stitch, applique, knitting, crochet, and lace making. I didn’t want the sampler to really look like a sampler. I wanted something interesting and fun, and I found the perfect pattern on Etsy from Jessica Long Embroidery.

Her pattern was for a 4″ design, but I wanted something a little bigger, so I enlarged the pattern to fit an 8″ hoop. I had about half of the floss colors she recommended and substituted the rest from my extensive stash of floss (years of collecting supplies and I’m finally starting to use some up!).

I think my first project turned out quite nicely. I’m pleased with it and it will make a great reference for several types of stitches.

Next project will be a mandala from one of my designs: Autumn Mandala. I designed this several years ago and have sold it as a graphic on apparel, mugs, and stickers. I think it will work up beautifully in embroidery.

I’m starting out testing the size of the design as well as floss colors and stitches before tackling the full project. I’ve also discovered that tracing the design (especially at the size I printed it) is quite an undertaking. I’m considering having it printed onto fabric, which will be much easier but will delay starting the project a bit.