Monogrammed hand towel
Stitch a single initial in the corner of a cotton hand towel, framed with a few leaves. Use stick-and-stitch stabilizer so the pattern sits on top of the loops.
Stitches: backstitch, satin stitch, French knot
Project ideas
Embroidered Gift Ideas: Towels, Totes, Robes & Keepsakes
A name, an initial or a little sprig of flowers turns an everyday item into a gift that people keep for years. These ideas are sized for beginners and use the stitches in the Beginner Guide.
Mood image (illustration)
8 ideas to stitch
Lavender sprig tea towels
Flour-sack tea towels are smooth and easy to stitch. A row of lavender stems along the hem is quick and looks like it came from a boutique.
Stitches: stem stitch, lazy daisy, fly stitch
Butterfly canvas tote
Use the butterfly pattern from the Beginner Guide on a plain cotton tote. Hoop just the front layer so you don't stitch the bag closed.
Stitches: backstitch, satin stitch, stem stitch
Name-and-flower throw pillow cover
Chain stitch lettering stands out on a pillow cover. Add a small wildflower cluster beside the name.
Stitches: chain stitch, lazy daisy, French knot
Cozy blanket corner initial
Fleece and knit throws need a tear-away or wash-away stabilizer underneath. Keep the design simple and bold.
Stitches: chain stitch, satin stitch
Drawstring keepsake pouch
A small gift for jewelry, a rosary or a keepsake. Stitch the design before you sew the pouch together.
Stitches: seed stitch, backstitch, French knot
Bookmark with a favorite word
Stitch on felt or stiff linen, then back it with a second layer. A thoughtful add-on for any book gift.
Stitches: backstitch, French knot
Framed memory hoop
A short quote, a family name or a meaningful date in a 6-inch hoop. Finish the back with felt as shown in the guide.
Stitches: backstitch, lazy daisy, stem stitch
Blanks & supplies for these projects
Search results open on Amazon or Walmart so you can compare prices and sizes.
- Blank cotton tote bags
- Flour-sack tea towels
- White cotton hand towels
- Stick-and-stitch stabilizer
- Blank pillow covers
Tips for success
- Pre-wash towels and totes so they don't shrink around your stitches.
- On textured items like terry towels, a water-soluble topping keeps stitches from sinking into the loops.
- Keep lettering at least 3/8 inch tall so each letter stays readable.
Free download
Learn the basics with the free Beginner Guide
18 illustrated pages: 12 essential stitches, the Spring Wreath and butterfly projects, clean tracing sheets and a printable practice tracker. Pay what you want, even $0.