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- Jun 16, 2021
- 3 min read
Updated: May 7, 2022
The "window method" is perhaps the most common way to transfer a design onto fabric for hand embroidery, and essentially involves tracing a design from paper or screen onto fabric in conjunction with any number of transfer tools.
In this post, I'll be using this simple design and a pencil to demonstrate the window method.
In this post, I'll be explaining why it's called the window method, how to do it, and provide you with a few pieces of troubleshooting advice.
Why is it called the window method?
This is known as the "window method" because you'll be bringing your hoop to a window on a sunny day in order to more clearly see your pattern, which allows you to more easily trace your design onto your fabric. You can also use an alternative source of light (such as a light box or lamp) if you don't have access to a window on a sunny day. And, in some cases, you might have enough ambient light in your workspace to see through to your design without the additional light from a window or other light source at all!
How do you transfer an embroidery design using the window method?
Print your pattern
I've printed out a simple embroidery pattern onto normal computer paper to demonstrate the window method for today's post. If you're printing out a pattern to be transferred multiple times, you might consider using something a bit sturdier (such as card stock).
If you don't have access to a printer, try placing your hoop on top of your tablet or computer monitor -- just be careful not to press so hard on your screen that you leave behind unintentional damage.
Place your pattern underneath your fabric
Because I'm using such a thin and light color of fabric in this example, I'm able to see through to my design without having to bring my hoop to an additional light source.
Trace your design
Hold your pattern steady with your non-tracing hand as you use your chosen transfer tool to trace your design to fabric. If your pattern is a bit more intricate, or if you find it too difficult to hold the pattern as you trace with your other hand, consider temporarily taping it to the back of your hoop using a few strips of clear tape.
It's that simple -- print your design, place it behind your fabric, and trace!
Troubleshooting
If you're having issues seeing your design or pattern through your fabric, ask yourself the following questions:
Is your light source bright enough?
I've found that certain designs and fabric require me to use alternative sources of light (such as a lightbulb) to see clearly, even on exceptionally bright and sunny days.
Are the lines on your pattern thick enough?
If not, try drawing over the lines of your pattern using a thick marker or pen.
Is your fabric too opaque for this method?
Most of the fabrics I use in my own work are thin enough for me to see through, so long as I find a strong enough light source. If your fabric isn't see-through no matter how bright the light, you might consider a different transfer method (such as washable transfer paper).
Thank you for being here, and I can't wait to see what you make!
I hope this was useful, and I can't wait to see what you make - whether you create something from one of my kits or patterns, or from a design of your very own! If you'd like to share your work with me, you can always tag me on your social media accounts (@hopebroidery on Instagram and Twitter, @hope.broidery on TikTok). If you don't have public social accounts, but still want to share, consider emailing me a few pictures (hope@hopebroidery.com), I would love the chance to tell you how much I love your work!
Happy stitching!
Your new favorite hobby awaits with these beginner-friendly embroidery kits!
As an embroidery enthusiast with a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience in the craft, I'm here to delve into the intricacies of the "window method" for transferring embroidery designs onto fabric. This method, a staple in the world of hand embroidery, involves using natural or artificial light to trace a pattern onto fabric. Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
Window Method Basics:
1. Introduction to Window Method:
- The "window method" is a widely adopted technique for transferring embroidery designs onto fabric.
- It entails tracing a design from paper or a screen onto fabric using various transfer tools.
2. Why "Window Method"?
- Named so because it involves bringing your embroidery hoop to a well-lit window on a sunny day to clearly see and trace the pattern onto the fabric.
- Alternative light sources like light boxes or lamps can be used if a sunny window is unavailable.
- Some workspaces might have sufficient ambient light for this method.
How to Transfer Using the Window Method:
3. Print Your Pattern:
- Print the embroidery pattern on regular computer paper. For multiple transfers, consider using sturdier material like cardstock.
- In the absence of a printer, placing the hoop on a tablet or computer monitor is an alternative.
4. Place Pattern Underneath Fabric:
- With thin, light-colored fabric, you may see through to the design without additional light. The choice of fabric color and thickness matters.
5. Trace Your Design:
- Hold the pattern steady with one hand while using a chosen transfer tool with the other to trace the design onto the fabric.
Troubleshooting Tips:
6. Brightness of Light Source:
- Ensure that your light source is bright enough. Some designs and fabrics may require alternative light, such as a lightbulb.
7. Thickness of Pattern Lines:
- If the lines on your pattern are not clear, go over them with a thick marker or pen.
8. Fabric Opacity:
- If your fabric is too opaque, consider using a different transfer method, like washable transfer paper.
Closing Thoughts:
In conclusion, the window method is a straightforward yet effective way to transfer embroidery designs, providing flexibility in adapting to different lighting conditions and fabric types. Troubleshooting tips address common issues that enthusiasts might encounter during the process.
As a seasoned embroidery enthusiast, I'm excited to see the beautiful creations that stem from your newfound knowledge of this technique. Happy stitching!
