“From my experience, most kits you find on Etsy will be direct from the designer, and they’ll be sure that you have everything you need and the best quality materials,” artist and expert crafter Aimee Ray tells The Spruce. “Mass-produced kits from craft stores can be hit or miss; sometimes the materials aren’t as good and the instructions can be unclear.” We took Ray’s insight and undertook hours of editorial research to recommend the best embroidery kits below. Be aware that you will need your own embroidery hoop, needle, and floss to complete this project. Luckily, other options on Ray’s Etsy shop offer all of the materials so you can choose based on what you need and your skill level. Dimensions: 8 x 8 inches | Included Materials: Color printed fabric, instruction sheet Dimensions: 14.5 x 12 inches | Included Materials: Fabric, 12 skeins of floss, 12 bobbin cards, 4 needles, fabric marker, hoop, dowel, sampler stencil, instruction booklet Dimensions: 10.25 x 7.25 x 2.13 inches | Included Materials: Beads, buttons, 10 skeins of thread, headband, hoop, and more The kit is recommended for ages 13 and up so it makes a perfect craft kit for teens. Heidi Boyd also offers adorable tea towel kits. Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches | Included Materials: Tote bag, hoop, floss, needle, stitch guide, color guide Dimensions: 17.71 x 17.71 inches | Included Materials: Hoop, linen cushion cover, 2 needles, set of threads, instruction sheet Dimensions: 6 x 6 inches | Included Materials: Hoop, linen fabric, 2 needles, set of embroidery cotton, instructions Dimensions: 5-7 inches | Included Materials: Cotton fabric, hoop, skeins of floss, instructional booklet And although the stitching looks complex, the kit includes access to a video tutorial for beginners. Dimensions: 9 x 9 inches | Included Materials: 13 skeins of floss, needles, double hoop, instructions, beginner’s guide Dimensions: 8 x 8 inches | Included Materials: Varies by kit option Some options on this list allow you to only select the materials you need, which is a great way to save money if you already own your own needles, threads, etc. More avid embroiderers can opt for a more simple kit and use the materials they already own to supplement the rest.
Skill Level
Your familiarity with embroidery will help determine the right kit for you. Beginners should look for ones with ample instructions as well as all the materials needed to complete the embroidery. They should also opt for simple designs when stitching for the first time. Professionals can opt for larger and more intricate designs and kits that require more skill and time. There are also embroidery kits designed specifically for kids, which are perfect for small hands who may be curious about crafting.
Size
The great thing about embroidery projects is that they can create something new to hang on the wall or display in your home. If looking to fill an empty space on a gallery wall, be sure to consider the size of the project included in your embroidery kit. If using a hoop, use the size of the hoop rather than the fabric when determining the size. For other projects like a tote bag, pillowcase, or even clothing item, consider where your project will live and determine if it is the right size and shape to enjoy for years to come.
Design
Whether you are skilled in embroidery or not, you will enjoy a project more when you are excited by the design you are using. There are endless options for embroidery designs from classic florals to pop culture references and cartoon characters. Ensure that you will enjoy your project for as long as possible by choosing a design that you enjoy and think will work well in your space. Small businesses and sellers often create a personal buying experience, says embroiderer Alexis Acevedo, and they often offer a plethora of design options. “Connecting with a designer you love is a great way to immerse yourself among an amazing community of doers and makers like yourself,” she shares.
Why Trust the Spruce Crafts?
This article was written by Mollie Johanson who has over 10 years of professional crafting experience. She has been writing for The Spruce Crafts for over three years and also runs her blog and product line Wild Olive. Additional reporting was done by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce brands covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays. She’s also covered similar topics in other roles, including toy reviews, product round-ups, expert-focused articles, and more. Ray also mentions including basic hand embroidery, which can include a combination of different stitches, and needle punch, which uses a special needle punching thread through the fabric over and over. Simple materials including tape and scissors are often necessary for completing projects and must be supplied by the consumer. Expert advice was provided by Etsy seller and graphic designer Aimee Ray and Etsy seller and embroiderer Alexis Acevedo.
