Freestanding lace designs have been specially digitized for watersoluble stabilizer. After the stabilizer is removed, beautiful lace remains behind. When you download the design, you will find a total of 2 files. One is the for the front pocket (file "a") and the other file is for the back portion (file "b").

There are a couple of different kinds of water-soluble stabilizer. One is clear and plastic, and that brand is Sulky Ultra Solvy. The other is soft and fibrous, called Vilene. Both will work very well. Vilene is used in this demonstration. Use a size 11 or 75/11 sharp sewing needle. A sharp sewing needle has a smaller, finer point than an embroidery needle. That means it will make smaller holes in the stabilizer.

Freestanding lace is seen from both sides, so wind a bobbin with the same thread that you're using in the needle.

Hoop the stabilizer firmly. Make sure it is nice and tight with no wrinkles.

Attach the hoop to the machine and load file "a". Use 40 weight rayon or polyester thread. You can also use 30 weight cotton or metallic thread for most freestanding lace designs. Embroider the design.

After embroidering, trim away the excess stabilizer.

The stabilizer's packaging should give instructions for removing the excess. For Vilene, soak the lace pieces for a few moments.

Air dry, then press using a pressing cloth.

Repeat the steps above to embroider the back of the lace pocket (file "b").

Now it is time to assemble the heart pocket. Lay the back piece down on the table with the right side facing up. Place the pocket piece on top of it, and make sure it also has the right side facing up. Align the edges and the points, and pin the two pieces together.

With the same thread used in the embroidery, hand sew along the two straight edges of the pocket to attach the pieces. You can also glue the pieces together.

Fill this beautiful pocket with sweet treats and a handwritten note to create an unforgettable gift for your loved ones.

Christmas-theme versions make wonderful gifts to hang on the tree! Fill with money or a gift card as present from Santa.