How to make your own DIY variegated multicolour floss for embroidery
Here’s how to make your own DIY variegated multicolour floss and some ideas for how to use it in your embroidery and cross-stitch projects.
If you love stitching with variegated thread, why not make your own? With some simple white stranded cotton thread and fabric markers, you can create custom multicolour floss that will bring a unique, handmade touch to your designs.
Materials You’ll Need:
- White stranded cotton thread (easily available at craft stores)
- Fabric markers
- A flat surface to work on
- A bobbin or card to wind your thread onto
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Variegated Multicolour Floss:
Prep Your Thread:
If your thread is loose already, wind it around your hand loosely to make it bunched together. If it’s in it’s skein simple slide the paper sleeves off. This will make it easier to handle when applying the colours, but don’t wind it too tightly, as you want the ink to penetrate the fibres fully.
Apply the colour:
Using your fabric markers, begin dabbing bands of colour onto the wound thread. Dabbing works better than trying to ‘draw’ as this will drag at the thread.
Flip and Repeat:
Once you’ve covered one side, flip the thread over and repeat the process on the other side. Ensure the entire length of the thread is coloured, as any uncoloured spots will remain white when you stitch.
You can experiment with different colour combinations. For mine I just used every colour, but next time I would like to try a rainbow effect and possibly and Ombre.
Let the Ink Set:
After you’ve applied the markers, allow the thread to sit for a few minutes to ensure the ink fully dries and sets into the cotton. This will prevent any smudging while you’re stitching.
Optional: wind onto a bobbin
For ease of use I like to have my thread wound onto bobbins. I used my pencil bobbin, which you can find a cut file for here.
Ready to Stitch:
Once dry, your DIY variegated floss is ready to use. For my test project I stitched my name using my simple cross stitch alphabet which you can download for free.
Fun Ways to Use Variegated Floss in Embroidery and Cross-Stitch
Gradient Borders:
Use your multicolour thread to embroider the borders of a piece, allowing the gradual colour changes to create a beautiful gradient effect. This works especially well for floral designs or abstract patterns.
Ombre Letters:
If you’re working on monograms or lettering, variegated floss can add an ombre effect to each letter, making them stand out with minimal effort.
Nature-Inspired Designs:
Variegated threads are perfect for nature-inspired designs like leaves, trees, or water elements. The colour changes mimic the subtle shifts in nature, bringing your designs to life.
Abstract Cross-Stitch Patterns:
Create dynamic abstract cross-stitch patterns where the changing thread colour adds extra dimension to the design. You could stitch a geometric shape and let the colour shifts do the rest!
Give it a go, and let me know how it turns out!
If you try this DIY Variegated Multicolour Floss tutorial, feel free to share your creations on social media and tag @CraftCartwright, I’d love to see what you come up with!
