Using cross stitch to elevate your handmade clothes
I’ve always loved the idea of combining traditional crafts in unexpected ways. So when I started sewing a new jacket using the contemporary kimono jacket pattern from Indygo Junction, I knew I wanted to add a cross stitch twist. I’d seen pixelated artwork before, where part of the image has been blurred into blocks of colour, and that concept inspired me to bring a pixel art style to my latest sewing project.
Why I chose cross stitch for the neck band
Rather than embroidering all over the jacket, I focused the embellishment just on the neck band. It’s a natural frame for the face and adds a luxury detail when you catch it up close. I used two strands of DMC thread in colours that matched the jacket fabric. Cross stitching before sewed the whole jacket together.
The fabric I used was the Story Fabric Forest from Terry’s Fabrics. It’s 100% cotton with a lovely weight and a clear even weave, which made it perfect for cross stitching directly onto. It also drapes beautifully, which suited the kimono shape of the jacket.
Sewing tips for working with this fabric
This particular fabric does have a slight tendency to fray, so I made sure to zig zag stitch all my fabric pieces before stitching it together.
I made the cropped version of the jacket since I’m only 5ft 3 and the waist length sleeve length work well. I’d made the pattern before, so I was confident with the construction. This time, though, rather than a quilted version, this draping fabric and adding the cross stitch gave the project a completely different feel.
The final result
I’m so happy with how the cross stitch detail, the elegant fabric, and the jacket pattern have come together. The embroidery adds texture and colour in a modern way, giving the whole jacket a designer feel.
If you’re looking for a new way to blend your love of embroidery with garment making, I’d definitely recommend experimenting with cross stitch on your fabric.
