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Embroidering FinishedChristmas StockingsWhen October rolls around, embroidered Christmasstocking projects seem to be inevitable. Do you findyourself perplexed when it comes to embroidering anarrow area like that? Here is one example of how a littlecreative hooping makes it possible to add embroidery tofinished Christmas stockings.

STEP: 1

This stocking has a folded cuff, and for this project,we need to embroider a name on the facing part of thecuff. Begin by marking the desired placement for theembroidery.

STEP: 2

Next, the cuff needs to be turned inside out, so thatthe entire stocking lies flat.

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STEP: 3

It's always preferable to hoop your embroidered item,if you can, and although this space is narrow, it's nottoo narrow for a hoop that is large enough toaccommodate the name design. Still, a little hoopingcreativity may be called for.

STEP: 4

The hoop shown in this example will need to beplaced sideways inside the stocking. Since afterembroidering the stabilizer will need to be removed,hoop a tearaway stabilizer with the stocking cuff,placing the cuff so that the area to be embroideredlies in a wide area of the hoop.

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STEP: 5

Making certain the tape is not in the path of theneedle, tape the edge of the cuff to the stabilizer.

STEP: 6

This hooping situation is sometimes called "hoopingupside-down." Notice that the excess material liesover the top of the hooped area. Now of course, thestitching should only go through one side of the cuff,so the part that lies over the top of the hoop will needto be pulled aside for the embroidering phase.

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STEP: 7

Clothespins or binder clips might help to keep thefabric anchored, but don't rely on them, they can alsoget in the way! Another possibility is that there maynot be enough slack to pull aside the entire piece atonce. It's important to stay with the embroiderymachine during stitching to make sure that everythinggoes well.

STEP: 8

If your hooping situation has the stocking hoopedsideways, as is the case in this example, you shouldalso rotate the embroidery design prior to stitching.

STEP: 9

When that's finished, simply remove the stabilizer,and turn the cuff right side out.

STEP: 10

Embroidered stockings certainly are tricky. Once youknow some of the tricks, the personalized Christmassymbols are well worth the work.