How to Transfer Your Modern Embroidery Pattern

A hand transfers a pattern onto a hoop with a pen and a light behind.

Introduction 


If you are working off a pattern and you want it to be accurate, you’ll need to transfer it onto your fabric. There are various methods, but my favourite way is to trace it.

A pattern is drawn on a hoop with pen.

How to transfer your pattern - quick video


I'll explain below, but I thought I'd first share this simple video where I explain my fav method in real life!


How to transfer your pattern - steps


You can tape your pattern to the window, then tape your fabric over top and trace it on. If it’s night-time (which it often is!) when you need to do this, I find this method handy:

  • dress your hoop

  • cut out the pattern and tape or pin it to the back of the fabric.

  • Turn the flashlight of your phone on, and pop it under the hoop.

  • Now if you press the pattern hard up against the fabric, you should be able to see the pattern in order to trace it on. You might need to move your hands around and draw little pieces at a time. It can be a bit fiddly, but you'll get there!


You can use any pen or pencil, but just bear in mind any mark you don’t cover with thread will be visible. So you can buy special erasable pens for this purpose, or just do a nice fine line that won’t be too visible later on, even

if it does show through.


Personally, I use the heat erasable Pilot Frixion Pen to transfer patterns onto my hoops.

This is an image of the Pilot Frixion Pen.

Conclusion


So there you have it, all the beginner knowledge you need to transfer your embroidery pattern onto your hoop and begin stitching! This method will be used and built on over and again as you make more patterns on your embroidery journey.


I’m so excited for you! 

What's next?


If you enjoyed this blog, you may also enjoy my Modern Embroidery Foundations Course. 


This course takes you through all the beginner techniques and knowledge you need to make your second beginner pattern, Little Wildflower Meadow! Plus, it includes a beautiful second pattern, Blooming Lovely, which is a fantastic place to practice your newfound skills.


I would totally recommend this course, as it covers more embroidery techniques than this blog, and you can also do it at your own place. Plus, this is a great way to hold yourself accountable for your own me-time and continue on your path to becoming a modern embroidery superstar.


If you want to buy beautiful embroidery thread, then you can buy it from the Clever Poppy Shop. 


If you liked this article, then you may also like this one, 

What Essential Supplies do You Need to Get Started in Modern Embroidery?


So, are you excited to make beautiful things?