Uses for Finished Embroidery and Cross-Stitch Designs

Many embroidery and cross stitch projects are fun to complete, but after framing and hanging a few stitch samplers, needle workers often look for some new uses for their finished projects. There are a number of different uses for small projects that are beyond the simple framed pictures. Needle workers often find themselves with small stitched projects that are the result of trying out new layouts or color combinations. These small pieces are just as beautiful as large ones, but may be less difficult to see as finished, since they may have been for practice or experimentation.

-Small stitching projects can be used as patches or appliqués on jackets, jeans, bags, and backpacks. Just turn under the edges and slip stitch the piece in position.

-The finished embroider or cross-stitch projects can be sewn together in a patchwork for a table runner, serving tray liner or placemats.

-Very small designs can be turned into buttons with diy button making kits, or used on the tops of bookmarks. These button kits are easy to use. They come with a template and are available for making many different sizes of buttons. The buttons they make are shank buttons. A number of hand stitched buttons in a theme sewn to a card would make a great gift for a knitter or seamstress.

-They can be sewn back to back, and stuffed to make pretty Christmas ornaments or hanging baubles for any time of year.

-Centered in the top of a stuffed cube or cylinder, small embroidery or cross-stitch projects look great as pincushions.

-They can be finished and backed, with stiffener inside, such as plastic canvas, and used as luggage tags and markers. This can make finding bags at the airport much easier.

-Small embroidery or cross-stitch projects can be stitched, glue, or fastened with brads to greeting cards or scrapbook pages. These accents are original and one-of-a-kind works for scrapbooker's.

-Bands of sampler designs can be used as linen bands or to decorate the hem ends of pillowcases.

-Small finished projects can be stitched to dog collars, harnesses, and leashes.

-Embroidered or cross-stitched appliqué patches make thoughtful labels and tags for larger projects like quilts or sweaters and afghans. They will identify and date your other beautiful handmade heirlooms. They can include names and dates, but look wonderful with other designs, such as practice motifs, as well.

-Many small items, like notepad covers, needle books, cosmetic bags, pick holders for musicians, can all be made with one or more panel made from a stitched piece.

There are many different uses for small pieces or practice projects of all kinds. Many of them add to the loveliness of a home or make great tokens and mementos for loved ones. Whether being used for yourself, or given as gifts, small embroidery pieces can be put to great use.