Spring Fling Embroidery Sampler

Spring Fling

Pattern: Spring Fling Embroidery Sampler

Thread: I dug through my stash of Perle Cotton and Sue Spargo threads and assembled a palette of colors that made me smile . . . and also worked together in a bright and joy-filled way.

Stitches: I used my favorites — back stitch, running stitch, chain stitch, and French knots. I added a lot of lines and dots to the original design. (At some point I had to force myself to stop.)

Completed: August 2024

Finishing: I decided I wanted to make this sampler look like a “badge,” so I used a contrast backing fabric (a purple check quilting cotton piece from my fabric stash) that could remain after trimming down the sampler. After finishing my stitching, I measured the outer edge circle and trimmed off the excess fabric. I just did a simple blanket stitch around the edge, and then added a few French knots and my initials/date.

I wanted some kind of focal point for the center, so I tried a lot of different buttons and sequins and even a flower applique. I ended up going with a cute ladybug button. (Because it just felt like the right vibe . . . )

What am I going to do with it? Well. Of course I don’t know for sure. But I think I may use it for a journal cover.

Other notes:

I never use embroidery hoops when I stitch (just my personal preference).
I always use a backing fabric behind my stitching. This time, it was a contrast fabric that would show behind the finished work.
One thing I really love about Dropcloth Samplers is lack of “direction” about which stitches or which colors to use where. (Go crazy!)
There are a lot of photos in my gallery (below) for this project, and most of them look like duplicates. But I kept tweaking, so I kept taking new photos.