Sewing Instructions
Running stitch
This is the simplest stitch and can be used in embroidery and for joining two layers of fabric together. It is very easy to do but not very strong. Starting with a few small stitches or a knot to secure the end of the thread, push the needle down through the fabric a little way along and pull the thread as far as it will go. Then bring the needle back up through the fabric a little way along and repeat to form a row of stitches. Try to keep the stitches even and neat. Finish with a few small stitches or a knot.
French knot
This stitch makes a raised dot and is a great decorative stitch. Tie a knot in the end of the embroidery floss (thread) and push the needle from the back to the front of the fabric. Hold the end of the needle in your right hand and wind the floss around it once (or twice for a bigger knot). Still holding the floss, push the needle back through the fabric as close as you can to where you began. Pull the thread through from the back to form the knot. Tie a knot in the underside of the fabric and cut the thread.
Extract from Sewing for Children
Text copyright © Emma Hardy, photos © CICO Books, RRP$44.99 (hardback), available now. Published by CICO Books. Distributed by Southern Publishers Group.
