Let’s start with how to make a back stitch.
A backstitch is pretty self explanatory – a line of stitches made by stitching back. I know, I am a true wordsmith, so bear with me. Start by inserting your needle up through (a) and back down through (b). That will make one stitch. To keep going, bring your needle up through (c) and repeat the whole process. It is really a simple stitch, but I love the look. It is my favorite stitch and I find myself going back to this over and over.
But what fun is it to teach you how to do something without having a cute project to go along with it?
Cut a piece of cardboard the same size as the glass from your frame. Also cut a piece of fabric one inch bigger around than the glass in the frame. (I had a 5″ x 7″ frame so I cut my fabric to 7″ x 9″).
My “pattern” is a heart cut out of card stock. Fancy, huh? I just free handed the arrow and the initials. I used mine and my husband’s initials from before we got married. I could have used our initials now, but we have the same exact initials, even down to the middle name. I am pretty happy with myself, but I suppose “adm” + “adm” seems a bit self obsessed. ha!
I stitched on top of the pattern, only using the back stitch. Proof that a simple stitch can make a pretty impact.
I wrapped the fabric around the cut piece of cardboard using hot glue. I started with the sides, pulling tight as I glued.
Glue down your corners and place it in the frame.
I think this would be great stitched up with bright, modern colors. I am more of a neutral gal, so whites and browns it is for me.
You can always find me on my blog, facebook, twitter, or pinterest. I would love to hear from you!
Happy stitching!
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Jennie G says
Where can i find this fabric at?
Less Is More says
I just found this on facebook and it’s absolutely adorable! I love it! So cute! Very creative!
Lisa Mac says
I saw this last year. I so wanted to make it but could not find any fabric that would do. Any help? Available online? Thank you.
Laughing Abi says
I’ve been wanting to do this for my sister-in-law. She recently got married and they bought their first home. Planning to make one of these and give to them in the spring when we go visit – even have the fabric already!
Being Inspired says
Thanks for the great idea and tutorial! I made one for a friend’s engagement and she loved it!
http://beinginspired-blog.blogspot.ie/2012/08/day-2-carved-initial-embroidery.html
Cookie 17 says
Glad you showed back stitch been while since I did that one ,& as you get older you start forgetting a lot….lol. Love this pattern………. Thank’s Cookie 17
Kimberly says
I just found this on Pinterest and I LOVE this idea! Thank you!
Nora Anne says
I just LOVE this :) I have this fabric so I will definitely be making one of these :) My husband and I have the same initials too so I guess I will be taking your cue and using my maiden name initials! Thanks for sharing such a sweet project :)
Julie Snow says
I love this and I want to do one for Valentine’s DAy – where did you find your tree bark fabric?
Julie Snow says
OK I just read the rest of the replies…thanks for telling us the fabric!
Handmade by Hilani says
I’m so doing this….
Mique says
Let me know when you do…I’d love to see it! (I’m sure Allison would love it too)
Brandon says
This is wonderful! I don’t really have any experience with backstitching (or sewing of any kind), but I want to do this for my upcoming anniversary. I’m ordering the fabric you used, but can you recommend a specific size/type of needle I should use, along with type of thread? I’m sure there are various sizes and types of both, and want to make sure it turns out as good as yours! Thank you!
Allison says
I used a size 5 embroidery needle and DMC 6 strand embroidery floss (but I only used 3 strands). I believe the color is ecru. How sweet of you to make this for an anniversary – I think it will be perfect!
Brandon says
You’re awesome! Thanks so much.
Audra Ciprich says
Love this so much, my husband is deployed and will be seperated for 10 month. I will definitally be making this for our room! Thanks for the great idea.
Jennifer says
Oh my gosh this is so cute, then again I love anything Allison does! This would make a super great wedding gift for someone!
Allison says
I see that you guys love the fabric (me too!). It is Aviary 2 by Joel Dewberry. I might need to buy a few yards to keep in stock – it’s just so great! Thank you all for your sweet comments :)
Liz says
What an adorable little project!
bridget {bake at 350} says
That’s adorable! And I LOVE that fabric!
Marcia (123 blog) says
Allison, does the cuteness never end?
And I think even I could do this – I do vaguely remember the back stitch from about 25 years ago!
Kerry - Kid Giddy says
this is so cute! love the fabric and use of it! I don’t embroider, but I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before I add another hobby (read: addiction) to my plate! lol! -kg
Beverly {Flamingo Toes} says
Oh wow!! I LOVE this!! I need to find that woodgrain fabric – what a fun project!!!
Michele @ The Scrap Shoppe says
Adorable! Must.Find.WoodGrain.Fabric. ASAP! Pinning!
Allison says
Very cute!