Embroidery :: Transfering Designs

Since we’re in the midst of embroidering our Stitch & Quilt Along blocks, I thought I’d post some tips for transferring the design to the fabric, especially since this can be difficult with the interfacing on the back of the block.

I prefer to use a washable pen when transferring because I have a tendency to change the pattern a little as I’m working on it {another great option is the FriXion pen, more about those later!}.  Although a light box would be an excellent resource, I simply don’t have the space to accommodate one.  Instead I use a window.  Here is an example of how I transfer the design:

First, tape the original design to the window.

Next, tape your fabric over the design {this will assure it doesn’t shift while you’re tracing, and give you the chance to step back and make sure it is positioned exactly where you want it}.

Finally, trace your design using the water soluble pen.  When you’re finished the design will be transferred to the fabric.  Also, to get rid of the marks, simply spray the fabric with some distilled water and let it dry.
Any other embroidery questions you’d like me to answer?

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15 Comments

  1. I’ve done this for years, but your photos of the process are excellent! Even a beginner can understand exactly how to do that.

  2. You all are so clever! I’ll have to clean the window first, though;-) That’s one way to get the windows cleaned. I’ll just keep moving to the next one for each drawing. Thanks for the info.

  3. I love your pattern. It reminds me of the warm days of summer and right now we are at 43 degrees. I was wondering what kind of interfacing do you use on the back? I have always basted a piece of muslin to the back of my fabric. Does having the interfacing on the back make it hard to sew through with little stitches?

    lsandes@comcast.net

  4. that’s fab! i’ve had lots of people ask me about the best way to do this and now i can direct them here 🙂 mind if i share the link under the embroidery resources tab on my page?

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