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Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery

This very simple and quick make-over can change any regular sweater into a unique garment. We used designs from the Autumn Leaf Set.

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 1


Besides embroidery thread (either polyester or rayon), you will need

  • a sweatshirt,
  • light-weight iron-on cut-away stabilizer (we used Soft'n Sheer Extra by Sulky),
  • 3 strips of differently colored cotton fabrics (you can just use ready 1/2" wide trim or fabric tape of different colors),
  • fusible bonding web 1/2" wide, such as "Stitch Witchery" by Dritz or other companies,
  • ruler and chalk marker (or any removable fabric marker)


Step 1: Measure the length of the sweatshirt's front - from collar band to bottom band. Select fabrics. Out of each fabric cut a strip measuring 1 1/2" wide and the length of the sweatshirt's front plus 1". In our case it 's 18" + 1" = 19"

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 2

Step 2: Fold the strips in half lengthwise and lightly press to mark the central line.
Fold the first long raw edge to the central line and press, fold the other long raw edge to the central line and press.

Fold the short raw edges 1/2" inside and press. The result is a long, thin strip with finished edges. Check the length, it must be the same as the sweatshirt's front length. In our case, 18".

In the same way, make 2 more strips.


Step 3: With the help of a straight-edge and marker, draw 3 parallel lines on the shirt's front to mark the position where the strips will be.

Apply the fusible web over the central line. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer to adhere the first fabric strip over the web. Then press with an iron.

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 3

Step 4: Even though the fusible web is supposed to be permanent (and it probably is), we prefered to topstitch the fabric tape with matching threads, very close to the edges. This adds a decorative touchand ensures the strips won't come off.

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 4

Step 5: In the same way, attach all the strips to the sweatshirt. Now it's ready for embroidery.

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 5

Step 6: Using paper print-outs of the designs as templates, mark the position of the embroidery on the sweatshirt. Stabilize the back with light-weght cut away stabilizer, hoop it and embroider the designs one by one.

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 6

Select embroidery threads to your liking. We chose colors to match the strips, so the designs slightly blend in. You might prefer to choose different colors.

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 7

Step 7: Cut away the excess stabilizer close to the stitches. Press the sweatshit. That's it, it's ready to wear.

Sweatshirt Make-Over with Machine Embroidery image 8


Enjoy!

Happy Stitching!

Back to Autumn Leaf Set


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