Cutwork Technique for Embroidery Machines
Introduction: Cutwork is a unique and historical technique. We’ll take a moment to explore its origins before moving on to the actual instructions.
Cutwork originated in Italy centuries ago and quickly spread across the world. Its popularity was well-earned, thanks to its timeless, charming beauty.
As the name suggests, cutwork involves cutting out holes in an embroidered fabric following a specific pattern, creating a beautiful "see-through" effect.
In this tutorial, we will cover how to create machine embroidery cutwork using special designs digitized for 'easy and clean hole cutting.' We do not recommend using simple zigzag designs for cutwork, as they can lead to frustration and poor results.
By following these instructions, you'll be able to create professional-looking cutwork with your machine in just minutes. The results will be visually appealing, with smooth edges and no unsightly fabric "fringe."
Make sure you have the following items on hand:
1. Sharp appliqué scissors (preferably with curved handles for easy, close cutting along the stitch edges).
2. Small scissors with sharp, curved tips (see photos of both scissors here).
3. Heavy duty water-soluble stabilizer.
4. Light to medium weight fabric and cutwork designs.
Materials & Colors:
Traditionally, cutwork is embroidered on natural linens and cottons, typically in white-on-white. However, modern variations are much more diverse. You can embroider cutwork on almost any light to medium-weight fabric, using either darker or lighter threads, or even metallic threads. Just remember to use contrasting thread colors carefully for the best effect.
Basic Steps (Short Summary):
Hoop the fabric and heavy-duty water-soluble stabilizer together.
Embroider the first thread, then remove the fabric from the hoop (without unhooping).
Using sharp appliqué scissors, cut out only the fabric holes (the stabilizer should remain intact). Use small scissors with curved edges to carefully trim the fabric layer, avoiding damage to the water-soluble backing.
Embroider the rest of the design, which will neatly cover all edges. Wash away the water-soluble stabilizer in warm water.
Your cutwork is ready!
Detailed Directions:
Make sure the fabric has been pre-shrunk.
When hooping, ensure it is not overstretched and free from puckering or bubbling. Large hoops may sometimes struggle to hold the fabric properly. If your hoop has this tendency, insert a piece of paper towel between the hoop rings on all four sides to help secure the fabric.
Don’t forget to hoop the water-soluble backing as well—it should go under the fabric as a second layer.
Embroider the first thread. For this step, any light color will work, as it will be hidden under the main design later.
The finished result should look like this:
When the machine stops (after the first color change), remove the hoop from the machine (do NOT unhoop).
Using your sharp appliqué scissors, cut out only the areas designated as holes. The stabilizer should not be cut—leave it intact.
Use small scissors with curved edges to carefully trim the fabric layer without damaging the water-soluble backing.
After that, continue cutting with your appliqué scissors. Cut as close to the edge of the embroidered area as possible, without cutting into the stitches.
The result of this step should look like this:
Embroider the rest of the design (this will cover all edges nicely).
See the photo for the process.
Wash away the water-soluble stabilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Your cutwork is ready!
Here's how the finished butterfly looks:
Here’s a photo of the finished project—constructed and photographed by Bobbie Berry.
The photo features a food tray cover, a napkin, and a neck relaxation pillow, all embroidered with cutwork butterflies.
You can find these cutwork designs and many others in the Cutwork Designs category on our website.
