faq: what I use, where I buy

One of the questions that I'm frequently asked is "what type of ________ do you use?", which is usually followed by "where do you get it?". I thought it might be helpful if I listed out what I use, and where I buy it. At least for the most common items on my supply lists! (Some of these are covered in my Embroidery Basics series, which is worth taking a look at.)



Embroidery Floss

This has got to be at the top of my list of favorite supplies! It's inexpensive and comes in so many lovely colors! I'm like a kid in a candy store when it comes to embroidery floss, and I've always been this way.

Almost exclusively, I use DMC floss, except for some specialty flosses. DMC has kindly gifted me with many skeins of floss, but that doesn't stop me from buying more of the colors I use all the time. For that, I usually shop locally at JoAnn or Hobby Lobby.

There's also a needlework shop near me, which is where I go to find unusual flosses. Oh, and for a real treat, I'm a member of Thread Club (handspun embroidery thread!).



Embroidery Hoops

Plain wooden hoops are my favorite to work with, but I also use the teeny spring tension hoop you see here. I should probably own stock in these hoops, because I buy them ALL THE TIME! Usually locally, but sometimes online.

Create for Less has a good selection, and I was very happy with the 3" wooden hoops that I ordered from them. They only offer limited international shipping, however. Surprisingly, you'll also find lots of options on Amazon.

The vintage hoops that show up on my blog from time to time have all been given to me by family, but there are many to be found on eBay or Etsy.



Fabrics

Between my mom and I, we have a decent stash of fabrics, so there are plenty of times that I just grab what I can find for a project. But when it comes to embroidery projects, I have a few that I prefer over others. Osnaburg, Weaver's Cloth, Canvas, Muslin and Quilting Cotton are most common for me.

I'm trying out a new fabric, which I can't recall the name of (bad blogger!), but it has a heavier weight to it. I like it, and will share more when I figure out what it is. All of my fabrics like this are purchased locally at JoAnn. I like to walk through and feel the fabrics, looking for what might stitch well.



Wool Blend Felt

Lots and lots of the projects that I make use felt, but I prefer to work with the wool variety. It's much nicer to work with, and it holds up better too.

My local JoAnn has a small selection of wool blend felt by the yard, and I try to work with the colors they have when I can. Most are about 30% wool. It costs a lot less, and is easy for me to purchase without planning too far ahead!

Giant Dwarf sells wool blend felt pieces in the loveliest colors. I really want to place a great big order, but am trying to work through what I already have a bit first!



100% Wool Felt

I'm not gonna lie, if you've only ever purchased synthetic felt, the price tag on 100% wool may shock you. But believe me...there's a difference in these supplies. A HUGE difference! 100% wool felt is softer, sturdier, and just plain beautiful. I hang onto every little piece, and do my best to avoid waste. It's a treasure to me!

My sheets of felt came from Magic Cabin, but you can find it other places. Etsy is a good place to start...just be sure to search for 100% wool felt. I've not ordered from them yet, but Material Evidence has a a huge collection.

Those are my favorite supplies and materials, but if there's something you've seen me use, and you want to know more...leave a comment, and I'll reply with an answer!