You’re really keen to try out stumpwork, but “it must be so complex that surely you’re not up to the job?”
NOT. TRUE.
Stumpwork does require a little patience and precision, but it’s much easier than it looks. Give yourself a chance and a bit of unpressured time, and you’ll soon be creating fabulous 3D shapes.
Let’s create a beautiful butterfly!
First things first, let’s make a wing:
Here are some other tutorials you may find useful:
It feels pretty good, doesn’t it!
You’re doing great – let’s keep going and assemble all the wings to finish our butterfly, now:
Fancy trying out this new skill? Here is a selection of patterns that include wired shapes:
Happy stitching!
3 Responses
barbarastitcher
Hi Faby! I’ve often wondered how stumpwork or “3D” embroidery was/is done. I’d love to try this. Can you recommend what type of wire to use, its composition? Perhaps a certain thickness, as well? Thank you so much! ~Barbara
Faby Reilly
Hi Barbara! I’m so pleased you’re keen to try this technique – it’s such fun! This little butterfly is part of my masterclass project from the current issue of The World of Cross-Stitching magazine. Once the exclusivity period is over, I will publish it as a full pattern, with detailed instructions. 26 gauge beading wire is a good idea for this type of project, but I wouldn’t worry too much about what type (and thickness) of wire you’re using. Avoid anything too thick as you’ll have trouble bending it, avoid anything too thin as it will lose its shape as soon as you handle it. Anything in between will do just fine. Let me know how you get on 😊 !
barbarastitcher
Hi Faby! Thank you for the reply. Sorry it took me so long to see it and reply back. I’ve had a dickens of a time with trying to update my info/email on WordPress.com but I think I finally got it figured out just now. Next time I’m in a craft/hobby store I will look for the 26-guage wire and give the technique a whirl! Thanks again and “Happy Spring”!
~Barbara <3