From the page: The towel that still wants to hug
Idea 4
Embroidered dish towel
Embroidering cloths is a craft that spans centuries — grandmothers marked bed linens and cloths with initials and flowers in cross stitch or running stitch, techniques that secure the thread by interlacing it with the fabric weave. An old bath towel has a fluffy, absorbent texture, perfect for becoming sturdy tea towels.
What you need
- Old bath towel in good condition (no large holes)
- Scissors
- Colorful embroidery threads (leftover threads you already have at home work fine)
- Embroidery needle with a large eye
- Simple pattern (hand drawing or from a magazine) and a pencil or water-soluble pen
- Embroidery hoop, if you have one
How to make it
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1
Cut the towel into dish towel rectangles (about 16 x 24 inches) and secure the edge with a simple machine or hand stitch, so the pile doesn't fray.
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2
Draw the motif on the corner or center of the fabric with a pencil or water-soluble pen — flowers, initials, or a simple outline work well for beginners.
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3
Secure the fabric in the hoop to keep the tension even and prevent the edge from wrinkling.
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4
Embroider the outline first with running stitch (small even stitches in sequence), which gives structure to the design.
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5
Fill the interior with satin stitch or cross stitch, always working in the same direction so the sheen of the threads stays uniform.
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6
Hand wash and press from the back to set the work and reveal the clean design.
Finishing touches
Make a set of three cloths with matching motifs as a gift, or finish the edge with scrap bias tape for a more rustic look that stands up to daily use.
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