Bored Panda has rounded up 79 photos of embroidery projects from the Embroidery subreddit, and the gallery runs the gamut from tiny pins to full blown portraits. The collection includes beaded pins, adorned sneakers, and a glow-in-the-dark portrait of astronaut Christina Koch.
The pictures are meant to inspire anyone thinking about picking up embroidery. The subreddit’s community has posted everything from beginner projects to elaborate pieces, and the gallery shows the range of what the craft can produce.
What Embroidery Actually Is
Printful defines embroidery as “the art of stitching designs by hand or machine onto fabric or other materials.” It can be done by hand or by machine, and it is used to add character to plain materials like towels, shirts, and sneakers.
Embroidery has been around for thousands of years, and the basic stitches have stayed the same because the work is both beautiful and durable. The subreddit’s photos show how far the craft can go beyond simple cross-stitch.
How To Get Started
Threaded with Love says embroidery is a mindful hobby that forces you to slow down and focus on one thing. You cannot rush, but you probably won’t want to. There is no pressure to be perfect, and you can create whatever you like without following any rules.
The Fabled Thread shared some tips for beginners:
- Always use an embroidery hoop to keep your fabric tight and prevent puckering.
- Don’t fit the whole design in the hoop — a smaller hoop holds tension better, and you can move it around as needed.
- Don’t use threads that are too long, since long threads knot easily and are harder to split.
- Leave about 8cm of thread at the end so you can secure it on the back of the fabric.
- Never unpick anything. Small imperfections don’t make a piece any less beautiful.
The Mental Health Case For It
The calming, repetitive movements of embroidery can reduce stress and anxiety, according to Threaded with Love. The way the hobby encourages mindfulness can also reduce blood pressure and improve overall relaxation. Completing a project boosts confidence, increases mood, and brings a sense of accomplishment.
What The Gallery Shows
The photos include a New Zealand Huia made with stranded cotton and satin thread, a garden mouse, a baby otter, and a kingfisher stumpwork. There is also a portrait of astronaut Christina Koch embroidered and painted to glow in the dark.
The subreddit’s community is full of people sharing their latest work, from a beginner’s first bird to a completed 100 Ladies by Lecien embroidery challenge. Some pieces got yelled at by a Karen for being “too political,” while others were simply posted with pride.
Why This Matters
Embroidery gets less attention than knitting, crocheting, or pottery, but it is often underrated and exciting. The subreddit’s gallery makes that case visually.
The photos are stunning, and the tips are practical. If you have ever wanted to try embroidery, this roundup is a good place to start.
Key Facts Box
- 79 photos in the gallery
- Embroidery defined by Printful as stitching designs onto fabric
- Tips from The Fabled Thread
- Christina Koch portrait embroidered and painted to glow in the dark
- Huia made with stranded cotton and satin thread
The gallery is a reminder that embroidery is a living art form with a vibrant online community. The subreddit’s members share their work freely, and the result is a collection that spans skill levels and styles.
Source material: “79 Stunning Pics Of Embroidery Projects That Might Inspire You To Take Up A New Hobby (New Pics),” Bored Panda.
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