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Redwork InstructionsDo you love the look of Redwork? Here are easy Redwork instructions to help you get started. Redwork has a timeless appeal and is easy to do. See for yourself! NeedleChoosing a needle is one of preference. Any needle fine enough not to damage the fabric and has an eye big enough to accommodate the thread can be used. Experiment with a number of different needles to see which one you prefer. ThreadAny color of any type of thread may be used. To achieve the "authentic" Victorian look, use either red or blue floss. To replicate the "turkey-red" color, try DMC #304 (Medium Christmas Red) or DMC 498 (Dark Christmas Red). For Blue Redwork, DMC #312 is often used.
According to my research on the subject of red floss, many embroiderers don't believe modern red floss is colorfast even though the manufacturers state they are. It has been suggested that you soak your floss in vinegar and water for 20 minutes then roll it in a towel to wring it out and hang it to let it air dry. This is supposed to keep if from "bleeding" on your embroidery piece. (I don't personally know if it's necessary or if this works, so if you have any information on this, please share it with us!) Since colorfastness is a question, be sure to keep your floss dry while working with it. This also includes not wetting it to thread your needle. If you do, you run the risk of having the red bleed onto your fabric. If threading your needle is a problem, use a needle threader. They are inexpensive and can be found in any sewing or craft store. Stitches UsedOne of the things that attracted embroiderers to Redwork was the simple embroidery stitches used. Stitches most commonly used are:
Choosing which kind of stitch to you is personal preference. It is important though to use the same stitch throughout the project. Switching between different kinds of outline stitches will not give you the results you desire. Other stitches UsedThe following stitches are used to enhance Redwork. They are to be used sparingly, if at all.
FabricRedwork was worked on plain cotton muslin. Today cotton muslin can still be easily found in both white and ecru. Although Redwork can be work on almost any fabric with good results, most embroiderers prefer to use cotton muslin because it is "authentic" and provides the look of an old Redwork piece. Whatever fabric you use, don't forget to wash it BEFORE you start your project!Transfer your design onto your fabric.There are a number of ways to do that easily. Seetransferring your designs for more information. HoopUsing a hoop is your preference. Many embroiderers find using a hoop when working with Redwork helpful. See more about Hoops.Redwork DesignsRedwork designs can be found on the Internet or old books. Since Redwork designs are simple line drawings, you can use almost any kind of pattern to make your own. Children's coloring books are a great source. Another great source for outline drawings, that are FREE, is Dover Publications. Sign up for their newsletter and you will be notified of books for sale that week. Each book generally has two or three pages you can download. They even give the instructions on how to do this. I have found many nice designs that would be great for Redwork there.Enjoy the Results!If you follow these instructions, your redwork embroidery will go quickly and in no time at all you will have your piece completed. But beware! You might find yourself addicted to this type of embroidery. Its fast, easy and the results are beautiful.If you decide to try your hand at Redwork and would like to share your results, as well as your comments, tips or tricks, please contact me. I'd love to have you share your story and project with others. If you know of someone who would like to begin embroidering but are unsure where to begin, please tell them about these Redwork instructions. Your friend will no doubt thank you for showing her/mim an easy way to begin a wonderfully beautiful craft. Return to top of Redwork Instructions page. Return from Redwork Instructions to Redwork page. Return from Redwork Instructions to Home page.
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