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by Hilary and Graham from African Sewfari
To embroider designs using multiple hooping always scares new owners of embroidery machines. Tablecloths, bed linen and other household items look wonderful with designs running the full length.
This method may also be used to create a “picture” when different designs are used.
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Print the chosen design. Mark the center of the design.
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An easy way to find the center is to mark diagonal lines from corner to corner of the frame on your print out.
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Your center is where the lines cross. NB. If you have software that allows you to hide/display the hoop, make sure the hoop is displayed.
- Cut out the design along the frame lines.
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Position this “cut-out” onto your fabric.
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Pin into the center of design and into the fabric.
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Carefully lift your print (without tearing or removing the pin from either the fabric or printout) and mark the pinpoint with a non-permanent marker. Mark a cross through the center mark to help keep your fabric and designs straight.
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Sometimes, if the pin you use is rather thick, it will leave a small hole and the print can be removed before the marker is used. NB. If you intend using the printout repeatedly, stick a small piece of Cellotape over the center mark. It will prevent this hole extending with use.
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Hoop up your fabric making certain that your center mark is in the center of your frame.
If the designs are to be stitched near to each other and the hoop will trap an already stitched area, “Hoop-it-All” stabilizer or adhesive sprayed on normal stabilizer can be used to secure the fabric for stitching. Set your machine for center alignment and ensure that the needle penetrates the center marked on the fabric. Stitch out your design.
Recently, we made a beautiful circular tablecloth for a 50th birthday present using a single rose design. To get the “random look” we intended, we laid the cloth on a table and threw the required number of “clothes pegs” onto the table. Adjusted a few and then marked where each peg fell and in what direction. The finished tablecloth had just the effect we wanted.
Hilary and Graham | 
