Rubber stamp embroidery is yet another use for your stamps. A rubber stamped image makes an ideal template for embroidery projects. Felt makes an excellent fabric for this project as it is readily available in a wide selection of colors and, best of all, felt does not fray. This means that no tedious hemming is required and this project can be undertaken by someone with even the most basic of sewing skills.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 2 - 3 Hours
Here's How:
- Rubber stamp the image onto a sheet of felt. Roughly cut a square with the image in the middle, leave a generous allowance of about 1 inch between the image and the edges of the square (this will be trimmed later).
- Embroider around the outline of the rubber stamped image, using French Knots and Backstitch.
- Cut two other pieces of felt approximately the same size. Place the embroidered piece on top of these and sew around the embroidered image to form a border.
- Using sharp fabric scissors trim the felt to the required size. Sew the pin finding or a safety pin to the back of the felt.
- Ideas for Variations:
- Use beads within the design for added flair
- Sandwich lace or fibers between the layers of felt
- Use fabric ink to color the edges of the felt
Tips:
- Use an ink color as close as possible to the color of the felt. This will help to avoid the ink showing.
- There is no need to use a fabric ink, as the inked image is only to provide a guide for the embroidery and will be hidden under the stitches.
- Add a piece of acetate or similar between the layers of felt. This will add to the rigidity of the brooch.
- Any rubber stamp can be used - the main requirement is a fine, simple outline.
- A safety pin can be used instead of a pin back.
What You Need
- Felt
- Rubber stamp as required
- Stamping ink
- Fabric scissors or shears
- Thread (any embroidery thread will work well)
- A pin back
