Embroider Coraline Handkerchiefs with a Kit

Quick Answer

Use the LAIKA Studios x Sublime Stitching Coraline Embroidery Kit to embroider a handkerchief with the movie's iconic quote and character motifs. This guide walks you through each step, from setup to finishing.

Step-by-Step Embroidering Guide

1. Prepare Your Workspace and Materials: Lay out the handkerchief fabric from the kit, embroidery hoop (not included), floss, needle, and scissors. Place the fabric in the hoop so it's taut but not stretched. A common mistake is pulling the fabric too tight, which can distort the design. Adjust the hoop tension gently.
2. Thread the Needle and Knot the End: Cut a 18-inch strand of floss and separate two threads. Thread the needle and tie a small knot at the end of the thread. Using too many threads can make stitches bulky. Two threads give a nice balance for the handkerchief design.
3. Start with the Outline Stitches: Use a backstitch to outline the main shapes, such as Coraline's face, hair, or the key. Follow the printed guide on the fabric. Keep stitches even and small (about 1/8 inch) for a clean outline. Rushing can lead to uneven lines.
4. Fill in Large Areas with Satin Stitch: For solid areas like the hair or dress, use a satin stitch by placing parallel stitches close together. Work from one edge to the other. Don't pull the thread too tight or the fabric may pucker. Keep stitches snug but not tight.
5. Add the Quote or Text Details: Embroider the quote "When you're scared but you still do it anyway, that's brave." using a stem stitch or backstitch for the letters. Practice the letters on a scrap fabric first to get the spacing right. Uneven spacing can make the quote hard to read.
6. Finish and Secure the Back: When done, weave the needle under a few stitches on the back and trim the thread. Remove the fabric from the hoop and gently press with an iron on low heat. Avoid cutting the thread too short; leave a small tail to prevent unraveling. Ironing helps flatten the fabric for a neat finish.

Product Facts

• CORALINE Handkerchiefs Embroidery Kit: The LAIKA Studios x Sublime Stitching Coraline Embroidery Kit is now available exclusively from LAIKA (winter 2024). It's a limited collaboration, so the kit offers a unique design that you can't find elsewhere, perfect for fans of the movie.