Free Machine Embroidery - Mary Seaman and Sandra Kendall July Meeting 2022

 We had a talk booked for the afternoon session so members were able to do their own work in the morning  or there was a chance to join one of two machine embroidery groups. Mary led the group  of Beginners and Sandra led the Improvers.

Mary showed the beginners group how to lower the feed dogs and set the stitch length and width. When they were ready for thread she showed them how to catch the bobbin thread and bring it to the top and hold the threads taut while stitching began.

They practised control by making patterns, leaves and other shapes.

The intermediate stitchers practised stitching up and down and side to side. Then circles and filling in a shape followed by vermicelli stitch.

They then practised edging two small pieces of applique, an oval shape to be made into a bird by adding legs, tail, beak, crest and wings and a flower that needed leaves and a stem, followed by a stamped gingko leaf which needed outlining and veins.

The free machinists were going home to practise some more because it is one of those skills that needs constant practice. It often needs a practise piece before starting  a new embroidery as the stitching is affected by thread, fabric and surface fibres.

We hope to continue with a chance for more practise sessions in the Autumn.

A thank you to Mary and Sandra for leading the sessions.