How to Create a Year of Stitches

* FREE Downloadable Templates

* Embroidery Scissors

* Ruler

* Protractor

Embroidery Template:

Download the PDF template here

Spring & Summer Designs Template:

Download the PDF template here

Embroidery Designs Template:

Download the PDF template here

Cut a piece of cotton approx. 5cm bigger than your hoop and press to remove any creases.

Evenly divide the hoop into 12 sections using a protractor, mark and then join the lines with a ruler.

Erase a small circle in the middle and the outer circle. Write the year in the middle. Alternatively, you could print the A3 template below and transfer onto your fabric using a good light source.

Place the fabric into the hoop, making sure the year is in the centre and tighten the hoop.

Stitch the year with your chosen colour. Back Stitch or split stitch works well for small text like this. Use two strands of thread.

Pick your divider colours, I like to use colours that match the season, this also makes a nice rainbow effect. Stitch the dividers using three strands of thread for each colour.

Place your fabric back into the hoop and then go on to do the first stitch of the month, for New Years day I started with a blue firework, using two strands of thread for this. Other options could be a champagne glasses, confetti or a party popper.

Continue to fill out your month with stitches, you can do this daily or plan one day of the week or month to do the stitches.

1. Keep a notebook or use the notes app on your phone to keep track of your stitch diary! It is not always practical to stitch every single day so keeping a note of something you have done will help you when you go to catch up.

5. Keep your odd bits of thread, they will probably come in handy!