Care · Beginner · 4 min read
How to wash, iron and store your fabric so the next sitting begins without frustration.
By Tom Petrie · Embsupply, repair desk Updated 2026-04-22
All Embsupply kits ship pre-washed and dimensionally stable. Even so, three small habits keep your fabric ready for the next session.
If you bring your own fabric, wash it once before stitching. Most cotton shrinks 3–5% on first wash.
Always press from the back to avoid flattening the stitches. Use a pressing cloth between iron and threads.
Between sittings, take the work out of the hoop. Wrap it in acid-free tissue. Hoops leave a ring if left clamped overnight.
Found this useful? Pair the read with one of our kits — every kit page lists the relevant guides under the gallery.
FoundationsAbsolute beginner · 6 min read · Updated 2026-04-22
Before any pattern, three small habits — threading the needle, the back-knot, and where to bring the needle up — decide whether the next two hours are calm or frustrating.
EmbroideryBeginner · 11 min read · Updated 2026-04-22
Nine stitches — running, back, stem, satin, split, chain, French knot, lazy daisy, blanket — cover most of what beginner embroidery needs. Here's each one in two paragraphs.
MendingBeginner · 9 min read · Updated 2026-04-22
Sashiko grids, contrast threads and woven darning turn a hole in a knee or elbow into the best detail on the garment. Here is the philosophy and the four basic techniques.