The Ultimate Curated List of My Favorite Hand Embroidery Products

ReferencesTools & Materials
Written By Cassandra Dias

Throughout my [about 5] years of experience embroidering, I have discovered certain tools and materials come in very handy when working on an embroidery project. I’ve compiled a list of all the best embroidery products you should seriously consider investing in if you don’t have them already. A lot of these items I have tested myself (I’ve *starred them), and can vouch for their quality, effectivity, and usefulness.

Contents

(Click on links to jump to items ↓)

Stitching Materials

Fabric

  • Cotton

    • Duck Canvas

    • Quilting Solids

  • Linen

  • Felt

    • Wool Blend

    • Polyester

Thread

  • Cotton

    • 6-Strand Embroidery Floss

    • Pearl

  • Silk

  • Metallic

Stitching Tools

Needles

  • Embroidery Needles

  • Tapestry Needles

  • Chenille Needles

Embroidery Hoops

  • Bamboo Hoops

  • Beech Hoops

  • Plastic Hoops

Scissors

  • Embroidery Scissors

  • Fabric Scissors

Hoop Stand

  • Portable Tabletop Hoop Stand

  • Large Hoop Stand

Magnifier

  • Handheld Magnifier

  • Magnifying Lamp

Lamps/Lighting

  • Neck Light

  • Tabletop Magnifier Lamp

Thimble

  • Adhesive Leather Pads

  • Metal/Assortment Thimbles

Transfer Tools

Transfer Markers & Pens

  • Water-soluble Markers

  • Thermo-sensitive Pens

Tracing Paper

  • Carbon Sheets

  • Tissue Paper

Fabric Stabilizer

  • Water-soluble Stabilizer

Light Box

  • Light Box

Display Items

Hoops

  • Beech Display Hoops

  • Imitated Wood Hoops

Frames

  • Shadow Boxes

  • Circular Frames

  • Square Frames

Mounting

  • Acid-free Mounting Board

  • Adhesive Mounting Board

Hot Glue Gun

  • Mini Hot Glue Gun

  • Full-size Hot Glue Gun

Pattern Creation Tools

DMC Color Card

  • DMC Threaded Color Card

  • DMC Printed Color Card

Color Wheel

  • Color Wheel

iPad

  • iPad

Procreate App

  • Procreate App

Project Organization

Thread Drawers

  • Wooden Floss Cabinet

  • Plastic Floss Organizer

Needle Compact

  • Rotating Needle Compact

  • Magnetic Needle Compact

Thread Bags

  • Plastic Pouch Pockets

Bobbins

  • Bobbins

Project Journal

  • Project Journal

Sketch Pad

  • Hardcover Sketch Book

  • Spiral-bound Sketch Pad

Notebook

  • Notebook

Project Travel Bag

  • Project Travel Bag

Reference Books

Stitch Guides

  • See list below

Thread Painting

  • See list below

Extras That Are Nice To Have

Pin Cushion

  • Pin Cushion

Seam Ripper

  • Seam Ripper

Magnetic Wand

  • Magnetic Wand

Needle Sharpener

  • Needle Sharpener

Needle Minder

  • Magnetic Needle Minder

Measuring Tape

  • Measuring Tape

Bobbin Winder

  • Bobbin Winder

Bobbin Rack

  • Bobbin Rack

Thread Conditioner

  • Thread Conditioner

 

Stitching Materials

 

Fabric:

1. Cotton - I have found a tightly-woven, mid-weight, plain weave cotton fabric provides a wonderful base for thread painting embroidery projects.

2. Linen - This fabric has larger spaces between the woven threads than cotton, making this a suitable base for a variety of embroidery projects. - DMC Linen Fabric

3. Felt - When it comes to using felt as a base fabric, wool blends tend to hold up better than polyester. However, I use basic polyester felts to close the backs of my hoops.

Kona Cotton Pastel 101 Palette Charm Square 101 5-inch Squares Charm Pack

 

Thread:

1. Cotton - Cotton floss (especially stranded floss) is most commonly used for hand embroidery projects because the natural fiber is time tested, and comes in a wide variety of colors.

2. Silk - Spun silk threads tend to blend together really well because they have less of a twist than cotton floss. - Soie d'Alger Silk Embroidery Thread

3. Metallic - this type of thread can add metallic glimmer, pearlescence, and in some cases, glow in the dark properties to embroidery works. - DMC Mouliné Light Effects Embroidery Floss

 

Stitching Tools

 

Needles:

1. Embroidery Needles - These needles have sharp ends and slightly elongated eyes, and are the traditional needle used for hand embroidery. - DMC Embroidery Needles

2. Tapestry Needles - These needles have rounded ends and long eyes. I use this type of needle the majority of the time because I like how the long eye can accommodate different amount of strands without me having to switch up the needle size. - *DMC Tapestry Needles

3. Chenille Needles - These needles have sharp ends and long eyes. I use this needle when the thread layers get too thick for my tapestry needle to push through. - *DMC Chenille Needles

 

Embroidery Hoops:

1. Bamboo Hoops - Bamboo hoops are a popular choice because they are simple and affordable (and are also the most eco-friendly because bamboo is fast-growing and sustainable). - *Caydo Bamboo Hoops

2. Beech Hoops - Beech hoops are nice because they are basic enough to work off of, but can also be used as display hoops because of the refined look of the slightly darker wood and brass hardware. - *Nurge Premium Beech Wood Hoops

3. Plastic Hoops - Plastic hoops can add a touch of personality because they come in many different colors. They also typically have interlocking rings so your work really stays put. - Similane Plastic Embroidery Hoops

 

Scissors:

1. Embroidery Scissors - These are a must-have for any needlework project. The small, sharp ends are perfect for snipping off threads close to your work. - *Small Embroidery Scissors

2. Fabric Scissors - Another pair that are really helpful to have around are fabric scissors. The sharp blades are designed to basically glide through materials with precise cuts, making cutting base fabrics and mounting materials a breeze. - *Fiskars® Forged Scissors

 

Hoop Stand:

1. Portable Tabletop Hoop Stand - This tool is especially helpful for when I am working on a piece with lots of French knot work, or any other type of stitch that requires two hands. This stand can be used on a tabletop or can be moved to a couch or somewhere more comfortable. - *Nurge Adjustable Embroidery Table Stand

2. Large Hoop Stand - Some larger projects might require a more substantial stand. This is where a large tabletop or floor hoop stand will come in handy. - *Needlework Stand with Adjustable Frame / Needlework Floor Stand with Adjustable Frame

 

Magnifier:

1. Handheld Magnifier - I like to get a closer look at my work sometimes, and being able to magnify the stitches allows me to do just that. Having a magnifier also helps take strain off the eyes, since needlework is comprised of such small details that require constant scrutiny. - Carson Lighted Hand-Held or Hands-Free Magnifier

2. Magnifying Lamp - Ditto to all I said above, but add the fact that you can magnify your work without having to hold anything else. A magnifyer that can stand alone on a tabletop, or that can be mounted to a desk is super convenient. - *5X LED Tabletop Magnifying Lamp

 

Lamps/Lighting:

1. Neck Light - A neck light is a handy little hands-free gadget that you can take with you on the go. It’s lightweight, bendable, dimmable, and helps give extra light when abundant natural light isn’t an option. - *Lumos & Lumos Knitting Light

2. Tabletop Magnifier Lamp - As I talked about in the Magnifier section above, a sturdy, adjustable tabletop lamp is something to consider making a permanent fixture on your desk or in your workspace because it allows you to remain productive when lighting conditions aren’t ideal. - 10X Magnifying Glass with Light and Stand

3. Artificial Sun Lamp - This brand is highly rated and boasts the fact that it’s the closest thing to natural sunlight. And when thinking about investing in good lighting, sometimes the good reviews speak for themselves. - OttLite ClearSun LED Soft Touch Desk Lamp

 

Thimble:

1. Adhesive Leather Pads - Sometimes you need to protect your fingers, especially when working on a piece that has many layers of stitches (which can happen often with thread paintings). I like these adhesive thimble pads because they aren’t as bulky as traditional thimbles and they really stay in place. - *Colonial Needle Co. Leather Thimble Pads

2. Metal/Assortment Thimbles - If you’re not used to using a thimble, getting an assortment to try out might be the way to go. That way, you can find which type works best and start protecting those fingertips. - 8 Pcs Sewing Thimble with Storage Box

 

Transfer Tools

 

Transfer Markers & Pens:

1. Water-Soluble Markers - These markers allow you to transfer your design to your base fabric and the ink can be erased with water. The marker tip is on the fatter side, so I like using these to transfer simpler designs that don’t have too many small details. - *DMC Embroidery Transfer Marker

2. Thermo-Sensitive Pens - Gel ink pens that erase when heat is applied is another great transfer tool. This pen is useful for transferring more detailed designs because it has a finer tip. - *Pilot Frixon Gel Erasable Pens

 

Tracing Paper:

1. Carbon Sheets - Carbon transfer paper is used for tracing a design by hand, and provides a more precise copy with bolder guidelines than transfer markers and pens. - Carbon Transfer Copy Paper with Embossing Stylus Tool for Tracing, 30 Sheets

2. Tissue Paper - The method of tracing your design on a large piece of tissue paper, then mounting it on top of your base fabric in the hoop is appealing because you stitch directly onto the tissue paper, then rip the excess pieces off once your project is completed. - 20"X14" White Tissue Paper, 100 Sheets

 

Fabric Stabilizer:

Water-soluble Stabilizer - Adhesive stabilizer is convenient because you can print (or trace) your design directly onto the stabilizer, then stick it where you want on your base fabric. To remove the stabilizer from your fabric, you just submerge and agitate the project in warm water for 2-3 minutes. - Sulky Stick ‘N Stitch Stabilizer

 

Light Box:

Light Box - I typically use my iPad and a light box app when I need a light source to trace a design onto my fabric. However, there are plenty of other light box options if you don’t happen to have an iPad. - A4 Ultra-Thin Portable LED Tracing Light Box, (Black, A4)

 

Display Items

 

Hoops:

1. Beech Display Hoops - Beech wood embroidery hoops are a nice, simple option for displaying your embroidery works, and the darker wood (compared to bamboo) and gold-toned hardware gives your finished pieces a more high-quality feel. These display frames from Nurge are simple yet beautiful, and they are great because they are one continuous hoop with no joins or screws. - *Sherbo 3 Inch Beech Embroidery Hoops / *Nurge Hanging Display Frames

2. Imitated Wood Hoops - These hoops are a popular choice because they look like real wood and are simple to use. - *Burbell 3 Inch Imitated Wood Rubber Embroidery Hoops, 15 Pcs

 

Frames:

1. Shadow Boxes - I love using shadow boxes to display my finished embroideries because the glass provides an extra layer of protection for my pieces. You can also add different colored felt inside to hold the piece in place. - *Lawrence Shadow Box Frames

2. Circular Frames - There are different types of circular embroidery frames, but the ones that allow you to just insert your completed piece (hoop and all) are really awesome. - ACMS Needlework Shop Hoop Frame / *Modern Hoopla Round Embroidery Frame

3. Square Frames - Similar to the circular frames talked about above, these square ones also have a space that allows the full hoop to be placed in, then you simply secure it in the frame with cardboard spacers. - *Modern Hoopla Square Embroidery Frame

 

Mounting:

1. Acid-free Mounting Board - Mounting board is used when you want to frame your embroidery project, or present it in a display that doesn’t involve a hoop. When mounting a piece, you’ll want to look for one that is acid-free so it doesn’t damage your work over time. - White Matte Acid-Free Mounting Board

2. Adhesive Mounting Board - This type of mounting board is convenient because you can just stick your project directly onto the board and it will stay put. The only thing is that it is difficult to adjust your work after it has been pressed down on the adhesive, so that is something to be mindful of. - Pres On Acid-Free Mounting Board

 

Hot Glue Gun:

1. Mini Hot Glue Gun - I sometimes use a hot glue gun when finishing my hoops because I like the ease with which I can secure the excess fabric on the back. It’s faster than trying to stitch the back closed, and I know that my fabric will remain stretched taut. - 20W Mini Hot Glue Gun

2. Full Size Hot Glue Gun - A full size glue gun would work best for larger embroidery projects. - 60/100W Dual Power Full Size Hot Glue Gun

 

Pattern Creation Tools

 

DMC Color Card:

1. DMC Threaded Color Card - The DMC color card is a valuable tool that allows me find and compare potential colors for what I’m working on without having to run to the craft store to see them in person. And the fact that is has samples of the actual threads makes me more confident that I am selecting the right colors. - *DMC Threaded Color Card

2. DMC Printed Color Card - This is the same thing as the color card mentioned above, only the color swatches are printed, and not actual samples. - DMC 12-Page Printed Color Card

 

Color Wheel:

Color Wheel - This tool is helpful for making decisions about color combinations. - *Essential Color Wheel Companion

 

iPad:

iPad - This item has become extremely useful to me in the past year. Besides being able to do research and post social content with, I’ve easily created all my recent project patterns on it using the Procreate app, and have used it as a light pad to transfer my designs onto my fabric. - *Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)

 

Procreate App:

Procreate App - As mentioned above, the Procreate art studio app has become an invaluable tool for me. I use it to create all my embroidery patterns now with ease. - *Procreate

 

Project Organization

 

Thread Drawers:

1. Wooden Floss Cabinet - Having a storage area for all your embroidery threads is great for organization and makes it easier to find colors when the time comes. - DMC Petite Decorative Wooden Chest / 12-Drawer Bamboo Artist Supply Storage Box

2. Plastic Floss Organizer - An organizer with more compact drawers may be ideal for those who wrap their embroidery floss on bobbins. - 24-Drawer Plastic Organizer / Embroidery Storage Box Kit

 

Needle Compact:

1. Rotating Needle Compact - A small needle organizer comes in handy because its stores all your unused needles in one place. - *Loops & Threads™ Hand Tapestry Needles Compact

2. Magnetic Needle Compact - A magnetic needle holder just adds that extra measure of security so you know your needles aren’t going anywhere. The magnifier is a bonus! - SINGER Magnetic Needle & Pin Compact with Magnifier

 

Thread Bags:

Plastic Pouch Pockets - I use zipper pouches like these to store embroidery floss skeins in the drawer of my work desk. - Clear Vinyl Pouch Pockets with Zipper, 6 Pack / Plastic Binder Zipper Folder Pockets, 6 Pack

 

Bobbins:

Bobbins - Bobbins are a nice organizational tool to have if you don’t like how messy the threads of skeins get the more they are used. - Plastic Embroidery Thread Bobbins / Wooden Animal Bobbins

 

Project Journal:

Project Journal - This is a tool that can help you keep your needlework projects organized. It’s also nice to have the history of each project written down. Fill in pages about your projects, the materials and colors needed, sketches of your designs, things you learned while working on them, etc. - Embellished Art Embroidery Project Planner / Caterpillar Cross Stitch Complete Cross Stitch Planner

 

Sketch Pad:

1. Hardcover Sketch Book - Keeping a sketch book in your workspace makes it easy to get your ideas down on paper, and have them all in one place. Hardcover sketch books are just so pretty! - Rifle Paper Co. Menagerie Embroidered Fabric Sketchbook / Mifuner Mini Sketchbook

2. Spiral-bound Sketch Pad - I would probably be more inclined to take a spiral-bound sketch book with me on the go because I would be less likely to worry about wear and tear on it while traveling. The spiral binding also allows the sketch pad to lay completely flat on a surface, and pages can usually be removed easily. - SuyuanArt Van Gogh Aesthetic Art Mixed Media Sketchbook / Taja Sketch Book 8.5" x 5.5"

 

Notebook:

Notebook - Similar to a sketch pad, a notebook is nice to have around for jotting down ideas you might come up with for current and future embroidery designs. - *Feela 6 Pack Pocket Small Notebooks / WILFANS 3 Pack Spiral Notebooks

 

Project Travel Bag:

Project Travel Bag - I use the LoDrid embroidery travel bag when I need to stitch on the go. The circular front pocket is really convenient to store hoops, and there is plenty of storage space inside to pack all my tools and materials. - *LoDrid Embroidery Project Bag with Embroidery Kit / Peirich Embroidery Storage Bag

 

Reference Books

 

Stitch Guides:

1. Embroidery: The Ideal Guide to Stitching, Whatever Your Level of Expertise by Lucinda Ganderton - Simple photos and explainations for more than 200 stitches ranging in difficulty level.

2. A-Z of Embroidery Stitches by Country Bumpkin - Detailed step-by-step photos and written instructions for a variety of stitches.

 

Thread Painting:

1. Paint with Thread: A step-by-step guide to embroidery through the seasons by Emillie Ferris - A really beautiful hardcover publication that has clear steps and gorgeous designs.

2. Stumpwork Embroidery & Thread Painting by Megan Zaniewski - Learn to create really pretty, high-relief, nature-inspired pieces using a method that combines thread painting and sculpture.

3. Pet Portrait Embroidery: Lovingly Stitch Your Dog or Cat by Michelle Staub - Use the thread painting technique, taught in easy to understand steps, to embroider realistic portraits of cats and dogs.

 

Extras That Are Nice To Have

 

Pin Cushion:

Pin Cushion - This tool is nice to have around to keep your unused needles organized. - Large Cactus Pin Cushion

 

Seam Ripper:

Seam Ripper - For those times when the stitches can’t be corrected and need to be unpicked, a seam ripper is the perfect tool for the job. - Basic Seam Rippers / Mighty Bright Lighted Seam Ripper

 

Magnetic Wand:

Magnetic Wand - In those cases where you accidentally drop a needle, and either can’t see it on the ground, or just don’t feel like bending down to reach it. - Dritz Magnetic Pin Wand / Master Magnetics Telescoping Magnetic Grabber with Pocket Clip

 

Needle Sharpener:

Needle Sharpener - This cute little tool acts as both a needle sharpener, which stretches the life of your needle, and a needle minder. - Clover Needlecraft Sweet ‘n Sharp Macaron

 

Needle Minder:

Magnetic Needle Minder - These little gadgets are cute and functional! You just attach them to your embroidery project and can place your needle on it whenever you need to take a break from your stitching. - Caterpillar Cross Stitch Needle Minders

 

Measuring Tape:

Measuring Tape - For instances when you need to measure base or mounting fabrics or anything else that needs measuring. - Pink & Retractable Measuring Tape, 2 pk

 

Bobbin Winder:

1. Manual Bobbin Winder - This bobbin winder makes easier work of wrapping your threads around your bobbins. - Plastic Floss Bobbins with Bobbin Winder

2. Electric Bobbin Winder - An electric bobbin winder can make wrapping bobbins even quicker. - Electric Embroidery Floss Bobbin Winder

 

Bobbin-Rack:

Bobbin Rack - Organize the colors you are using for your project and have them neatly lined up on a bobbin rack. This one has an added pin cushion as a bonus! - Lampstop Bobbin Rack Floss Organizer

 

Thread Conditioner:

Thread Conditioner - Thread conditioner is said to prolong the lifespan of your threads, and this particular one reduces drag friction, protects against UV rays, mold, and mildew, and won't melt or freeze like wax. - Thread Magic Thread Conditioner

Cassandra Dias
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