Gting Started
GATHERING THE ESSENTIALS
To replicate the beautiful embroidery seen in Wilson's butterflies, it is essential to take inventory
of necessary materials and notions for the project's completion. Each of the butterflies included
in this series features entirely freestanding digitizing, so you will only need three key elements
for their creation.
Firstly, threads for the butterfly species you are stitching are vital, whether that be realistic or
tonal options to create an entirely different look. Secondly, you will need a reliable stabilizer
on which to stitch out your designs. Steven Wilson Studio recommends doubling up two
pieces of wash-away stabilizer to hoop within your frame, providing enough durability for the
embroidery to run while still having a softer, flexible finish. Thirdly, you will need a durable base
material that will hold up to high stitch counts when acting as a hidden appliqué underneath
the embroidery. For this specific purpose, Wilson prefers Stahls' Poly-TWILL™ Fabric, a tightly
woven, 100% polyester material that proves effective for his embroidered beauties.
For finishing off the stitched butterflies, a sharp pair of embroidery scissors will aid in trimming
and cleaning them up, such as the pair of Gingher double-curved embroidery scissors pictured
right. Lastly, an embroidery-safe hot knife or even a candle-length lighter will help in singeing
wing edges to leave a clean, uniform appearance.
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