Embroidery Fun!

Well, I finally have some crafty fun to share with you. I've been working on an embroidery piece using Sublime Stitching's (http://www.sublimestitching.com/) "Dia De Los Muertos" embroidery transfer of a "sugar skull". I'm really partial to anything that has to do with Day of the Dead artwork. You'll have to excuse the lousy lighting - I took this picture out on my porch earlier this morning before the light was optimum, mainly because it's hot already and I wanted to get a picture before it gets really hot here today (it's going to be 101).

I bought a cotton napkin that was on clearance at Pier 1 to try out and it's working rather nicely. I bought two new embroidery hoops at JoAnn Fabrics (they have 50% off coupons now) made by Clover that come in two sizes - small (4-3/4 inches round, $10.49) and large (7 inches round, $11.99). They are more expensive than the cheaper plastic and wood ones (usually starting around $2.50) that they have, but well worth it and especially nice to get 50% off! They hold the fabric nice and taut; much more so than the cheaper hoops. These Clover ones are made really well. I bought these because the hoops that I have don't hold the fabric as well. I haven't done embroidery in years; however, I have done some cross stitch and have a piece that I did many years ago that I absolutely love. I'll share that with you one of these days.

Anyway, I'm using DMC's "Flourescent Effects" floss which is 100% polyester and has taken a little getting used to. I think the vibrant colors are perfect for this piece. I'm going to use this as a topper on my chest of drawers in my office/craft room for Halloween and Day of the Dead. I'm thinking I may add some beads and blanket stitch around the outside. I have some really cool skull beads in colors that would be the absolutely perfect accent! I'll keep you posted on my progress. I hope to have the main embroidery done today and then I will start the edging and adding the skull beads! Stay tuned!