Fabrics 101: Embroidering on Handkerchiefs

Embroidered handkerchiefs are timeless, classic gifts for friends and family (especially for weddings and showers!). Create a contemporary version of the traditional antique linens using these helpful instructions.

Project Needs & Notes:

- Handkerchief
- Water-soluble, tear-away stabilizer,
  or cutaway
- Air-erase pen for marking

Designs included in the project and video are:

- 2" Fancy Flourish Alphabet
- D9954, Victorian Butterfly
- D4667, Simply Bird and Blossoms Corner
- L6960, Inky Queen Anne's Lace Accessory

A template is a printout of a design, and it's an excellent tool to plan where to stitch.

Print a template of the design from your embroidery software. If you do not have embroidery software, Wilcom's TrueSizer is a free program to use.

Arrange the template on the handkerchief. In this example, the letter B is in the corner.

Mark the center point, as well as the vertical and horizontal axis lines.

Cutaway stabilizer is usually the best choice when embroidering. But handkerchiefs are light and transparent, and the stabilizer may show through.

If using a light and simple design, tear-away or water-soluble stabilizer can be used instead of cutaway.

Hoop the handkerchief with the stabilizer. Vilene, a fibrous water-soluble stabilizer, is used in this example.

When hooping, line up the marks on the handkerchief with the marks on the hoop.

The design will be seen from both sides of the handkerchief. Wind a bobbin with the same thread used in the top.

Attach the hoop to the machine and load the design.

Move the hoop so the needle is right over the center point.

Embroider the design. A size 11 or 75/11 embroidery needle will work well.

After embroidering, cut most of the stabilizer away.

Soak in water to remove the rest.

Air-dry, and press. Use a pressing cloth.

When choosing designs for handkerchiefs, select light and simple designs. Those work best with the delicate fabric.

Give an embroidered handkerchief as a gift for a bride, mother-of-the-bride, or baby shower gift.

They're beautiful, contemporary renditions of classic antique linens.

Monograms are a timeless way to customize handkerchiefs. You can find a wide variety of alphabet designs perfect for monogramming here.