Embroidering for Baby

Babies have delicate skin, so when embroidering for babies, take care that the embroidery design will not irritate. If you are embroidering outerwear or decorative items, this is not as much of a concern, but if embroidering onesies or sleepers, you will need to cover the back of the embroidery with something soft to protect the baby. When embroidering useful items like burp cloths, bibs, blankets or quilts, place the embroidery near the edges so the center stays absorbent (burp cloth and bibs) or soft (blankets and quilts). If embroidering a car seat cover, do not stitch where the baby's face will press into the cover as he or she is sleeping.

Try to find out what colors the parents are using in the baby's nursery. If the nursery has a theme, try to find matching designs. A baby can never have too many bibs or blankets. Bath towels are also a good choice. Or make an in-the-hoop baby toy.

Always wash the item in allergy-free detergent or laundry soap before presenting as a gift. This is especially important if your have used water-soluble stabilizer.

If there is an older child, make him or her feel special by embroidering a "Big Sister" or "Big Brother" shirt.

Next issue: converting and re-sizing

from Mary Jane Allen of Perfect Little Stitches

Our two-in-one baby
doll is awake and
when you turn her over,
she is asleep.

Made "in the hoop"
with very little
machine sewing
required to complete.