Getting Started with Free Motion Embroidery: Tips for Beginners

Free motion embroidery is one of the most exciting and expressive techniques in textile art. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a curious stitcher looking to try something new, this post will walk you through the basics—so you can confidently start your creative journey.

What Is Free Motion Embroidery?

Free motion embroidery lets you draw with your sewing machine. By lowering the feed dogs and using a darning or free-motion foot, you control the fabric’s movement—giving you the freedom to “sketch” with thread. The results can be abstract, delicate, detailed, or bold—it’s entirely up to you.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Here’s a beginner-friendly checklist:

• Sewing machine (that allows you to drop the feed dogs)

• Free motion or darning foot (check your machine’s compatibility)

• Embroidery hoops (optional but helpful on certain fabrics)

• Stabiliser (such as tear-away or water-soluble options)

• Thread (try polyester, rayon or cotton to start)

• Base fabric (cotton, calico or felt are all good choices)

• Needles (embroidery or universal, depending on thread weight)

Don’t worry about getting everything perfect from day one—experimentation is part of the fun.

Top Tips for Beginners

1. Start Slow
   Don’t rush. Move the fabric slowly with your hands and keep your machine at a steady pace.

2. Practice on Scraps
   Use spare fabric to try out stitches and get a feel for the technique before starting a finished piece.

3. Breathe and Relax Your Hands
   Tension shows in your stitches! Keep your body relaxed and let the movement flow.

4. Play with Stitch Direction
   Unlike normal sewing, you’re in control of the direction. Try circles, waves, and back-and-forth lines.

5. Layer Up!
   Mix threads, colours and textures. You can even add organza, lace or dissolvable fabrics for extra effects.

Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

• Skipped stitches? Try a new needle or stabilise your fabric more firmly.

• Puckering? Use a hoop or stabiliser, and check your thread tension.

• Uneven stitches? Practice keeping a steady speed with both your hands and your foot pedal.

Want to Learn Hands-On?

If you’d like some personal guidance, why not join me at Eau Brink Studio? I run regular workshops that are perfect for beginners—and I provide all the tools and materials you need to try free motion embroidery in a relaxed, friendly environment.

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Or Join Our Mailing List for new dates, free tips, and exclusive discounts.

Final Thoughts

Free motion embroidery is a wonderfully freeing way to express yourself through thread. Mistakes often turn into magic, and every piece is uniquely yours. So grab your fabric, drop those feed dogs—and have fun stitching your own story.