Combine cross stitch and rubber stamping to create interesting embellishments for handmade cards, patches for clothes and accessories such as bags and purses or they can be turned into pretty pins to wear. A stamped image can form a template or outline for an embroidery or cross stitch project (don't forget to visit our cross stitch site for lots of cross stitch patterns and projects - About.com Cross Stitch. The outline of the stamped image can be stitched to emphasize it and add detail or a whole portion of the stamped image can be filled using cross stitch or another suitable stitch. The key to success is to pick a rubber stamp with a bold outline and plenty of space for stitching if required. In the finished project illustrated above, I stamped onto a scrap of cross stitch fabric and stitched around the edge, leaving part of the stamped image exposed to add color. As the surface of the fabric is textured, it is difficult to get an even impression, however this adds to the attractive finish of the project.
It is best to use a permanent ink such as Stazon, as this will not smudge or run during the stitching of the project. Other inks may be fine depending on the ink and the type of fabric, however it is best to do a test on a small scrap of fabric first.
Tip: Experiment by stamping onto paper a few times before stamping on fabric.
Do you stitch on paper or handmade cards? If you have work that you'd like to show off then you are welcome to share photos with others using this form - Stamping and Stitching - Show Off Your Work!
Materials Used
- Scrap of cross sitch fabric (aida) of the required size
- Rubber stamp
- Embroidery needle and embroidery floss
- Permanent ink (Stazon or similar)
Step by Step Stitch Tutorials
If you want to learn some of the basic embroidery stitches then check out some of these step by step tutorials:- Back Stitch
- Cross Stitch
- Half Stitch
- Quarter Stitch
- Three-Quarter Stitch
- Chain Stitch
- Running Stitch
