Fun, free and simple sewing and embroidery projects to suit all skill levels and abilities
Sewing and Embroidery Tutorials
I have enjoyed sewing and embroidery all my life and have lots of ideas and tutorials to share with you here at Sum of their Stories. Whether you are a beginner or have lots of experience you’ll find a wide selection of straightforward sewing and embroidery project and free tutorials.
Easy Embroidery Ideas
I love embroidery as a way to embellish fabric. I also like to keep things simple so none of my embroidery projects are complex, there’s lots here for beginners. I’m also a big believer in not letting perfection be the enemy of the good. Embroidery doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. A few simple stitches can be used to add beauty to all sorts of things.
If embroidery is new to you you might want to start by checking out my guide to 9 great basic embroidery stitches. Then you can use what you’ve learn with some of these easy and pretty projects. Click on any of these photos to be taken straight to the tutorials.
Embroidering garments
Have you ever thought about embellishing or mending a garment with a little embroidery? It’s really easy and can be a wonderful way to give an old favourite item of clothing a new lease of life or a totally unique look. Here are a few of my garment embroidery ideas.
Free Cross Stitch Embroidery Designs
Cross stitch is a very calming type of embroidery where the pattern is created with neat and even rows of crosses. Small designs can be stitched very quickly and be used to decorate all sorts of different things.
Simple Sewing Projects
If you are new to sewing you might like to check out my guide to what you need to get started sewing. There are lots of things you could buy to help you sew but not everything is necessary straight away so it’s good to know what is essential and what you can manage without.
Bag Sewing Ideas
Bags are a great thing for a beginner to make. They are relatively straightforward to sew and you end up with a practical and useful thing - win win.
Scrap Buster Sewing Ideas
If you have lots of fabric scraps it’s nice to use them instead of throwing them away. We have lots of ideas that only use small pieces of fabric, ideal to bust your scraps.
We have a wide variety of sewing and embroidery ideas so there is something for everyone. Check all the tutorials out below, there are lots more bags, clothes refashions, upcycling ideas and quick easy sewing projects that make great gifts.
The easiest way to sew a fully lined drawstring bag, a really simple drawstring bag sewing tutorial
How to embroider a pin badge with the Mr Hayward’s duck drawing from The Other Bennet Sister TV show
Embellish inexpensive butterfly print fabric with some simple embroidery stitches to add extra colour and texture
Free chart for a simple traditional style cross stitch alphabet sampler plus some tips for working with variegated threads.
How to make a unique tote bag with nylon net and tiny fabric scraps, 2 different bag construction methods explained in this sewing tutorial
A simple and effective way to make small pieces of embroidery fabric useable in an embroidery hoop.
Tips and hints that I learnt when making a blouse from an old tablecloth, hopping on to the trend of making garments from old embroidered linen
How to upgrade a plain cloth packaging bag and turn it into a pretty drawstring bag with some patchwork and applique
Use even small scraps of fabric to make pretty hearts. We’ve collected lots of different craft ideas together in one place to inspire you.
Upcycle an old aran sweater with some colourful embroidery and turn it into a beautiful bag
How to extend your fabric to make it fit properly into an embroidery hoop frame if you’ve cut it too small by mistake
How to sew a quick and easy travel cutlery roll and placemat. Ideal for picnics and for taking lunch to work, helping to reduce the need for disposable plastic cutlery.
How to embellish an old plain shirt with some simple embroidery stitches, a lovely and mindful slow stitching project.
Stitch a sweet mini country cross stitch design with hearts, flowers and a cute little duck with this free pattern.
A heart embroidery design pattern, in a mix of colours and stitches, worked in a slow stitch style. A guide to get started with slow stitching
Upcycle an old fabric placemat to make a useful hanging pocket for a coat hanger. Simple wardrobe organisation and travel security.
How to give an old denim jacket a fresh new look with fabric paint and some simple embroidery.
How to fix small holes in old garments using simple embroidery stitches and a visible mending technique
How to upcycle the sleeves of an old sweater into sweet easter gift bags with crochet bunny motif embellishments
Rescue an old sweater with some colourful swiss darning to cover any old stains and give it a new lease of life. A simple clothing makeover with a visible mending technique.
How to make a felt star ornament with simple snowflake embroidery, a felted sweater upcycling craft project
A quick and easy way to make fabric tabs for drawstring cords. 2 different methods, one hand sewn and one using a sewing machine.
A free cross stitch pattern to stitch a lovely autumn quote. A Fall Cross Stitch design you can download for free.
How to upcycle a plain organza bag with simple ribbon applique to make a pretty lavender bag
How to make a felt toadstool fairy house, a simple sewing project for Sew a Softie month.
My experience with Me Made May 2022, a challenge to wear handmade garments for a whole month.
How to make pretty hanging butterfly decorations with simple embroidery stitches. Easy enough for beginners, a nice quick project for more experienced embroiderers.
How to make embroidered patchwork hanging lavender sachets with beautiful beaded tassels.
How to hand stitch EPP English paper Piecing Hexagons. A little tribute to Pearl, my nan as this is the method she taught me.
How to make a simple straight skirt with an elasticated waistband. A beginners sewing tutorial.
Over 20 cosy sewing projects, ideas for keeping your home warm, cosy decor ideas and accessories to keep you wrapped up on cooler days too.
How to stitch a pretty floral wreath embroidery with a peace quote, a free embroidery design
Update an old sweatshirt with an embroidered patchwork heart applique. Great to cover a logo or design you no longer want or to upgrade a plain top.
How to turn old socks into soft balls for summer outdoor games. A great beginners sewing project, for Sew a Softie month.
My favourite sewing gadgets, ones which are actually really useful. All these ideas make great gift ideas for people who sew too.
A free pattern to make a bag with a contrast strap handle. A great sewing project for an advanced beginner or any sewer looking for a quick and easy project.
How to make a simple unlined drawstring bag with no visible raw edges. A simple sewing tutorial.
How to make a woven effect patchwork with scraps of striped fabric. An easy patchwork that is perfect for upcycling old shirts.
How to turn a men’s button down shirt into a summer top for a woman. A simple shirt refashion.
Make gardening more comfy with a kneeling pad, it’s a really quick and easy sewing project.
How to turn some of your fabric scraps into a simple top. A craft room de-stash project.
How to make a cute mini pincushion by upcycling a little ceramic pot or tealight holder.
How to make a waterproof bag for picnics, and social distanced meetups with friends and family. (once that is allowed where you are)
How to make a felt mini Christmas Robin. An easy sewing project for beginners, part of the Festive Sew-a-Softie Month.
Over 50 fabulous ideas for sewing for Christmas. Christmas decorating, tree ornaments and gift ideas.
If your sleeve board or ironing board is looking tatty it is easy to make it a new cover in just 15 minutes.
A free pattern and tutorial to make a simplified version of a traditional Japanese knot bag. This bag is squared off so the handles are much easy to put in neatly.
A collection of beautiful autumn or fall sewing projects. Something for all ages and abilities.
How to make an embroidered felt scissor keeper or fob. Ideal to upcycle an old felt sweater or cardigan
How to make a rainbow flower soft toy from felt, a sewing project for beginners and children learning to sew
9 of the best, and most simple, embroidery stitches for beginners. Plus a free pattern design to get you started.
Over 15 fun and simple sewing projects to celebrate Valentine’s Day and all things love.
Upcycle 2 old tea towels and turn them into a useful book bag with lots of pockets. An easy beginners sewing project.
Use scraps of fabric to make these sweet embroidered hanging bird decorations. A simple tutorial suitable for beginners to embroidery.
How to make little mini shopping bags to use as a Christmas decoration or reusable gift bags.
Today I’m a guest over at Minerva using some of their lovely Christmas print fabric to make reusable gift bags.
How to add a little Suisse or Chicken Scratch embroidery to an old gingham top to give it a refashion and a whole new look.
Make a sweet, practical and easy gift for a new baby; take a hooded towel and personalise it with some simple embroidery
It’s Sew a Softie month and I’m showing you how to make a poseable mini snake from an old sock. A fun and easy upcycling project that is perfect for learning to sew.
Take a simple wire mesh paper napkin holder and give it some fun summery decoration with embroidery thread.
Give an inexpensive Ikea tealight holder a little something extra with embroidery thread and a simple design.
Over 20 of the cutest felt projects around. Free patterns, kits and ready made decorative items.
I’ve over at Minerva crafts sharing how I made this Maddie top with some beautifully soft drapey fabric.
Make a pretty and practical drawstring bag for a bride or bridesmaids. Just the thing to keep a few essentials in when your dress doesn’t have pockets!
How to make a needle book embellished with an embroidered patchwork hexagon motif made with a simple EPP technique
Embroider a pretty floral blue cross stitch design and turn it into a lovely lavender bag. With a free cross stitch chart.
Sew up a simple drawstring bag to make a fun noughts and crosses travel game, otherwise known as Tic Tac Toe, with this simple tutorial.
I’m a guest over at Minerva Crafts sharing a simple embroidery on polka dot fabric design and a review of the Clover Create a Pincushion kit.
A bumper collection of over 20 clever and fun ways to give a gift card. From printable gift card wallets and pouches to knit and crochet ideas and everything in between.
Spider web stitch is a lovely textured embroidery stitch that makes a great flower or round motif. About 40 years ago my nan taught me this stitch and now I’m sharing it with you as today would have been her birthday.
It’s Pinterest challenge time, when we take a pinned project and try it out. This month I’ve made a pincushion ‘plus’, one with an extra bit especially for quilting clips.
How to make your very own Adipose Cushion. Adipose are cute little characters from an old episode of the fabulous TV show Doctor Who, making this a perfect gift for the Whovian in your life.
A free pattern and step by step sewing tutorial to make a versatile bag that has both and short handles.
How to make a sweet little biscornu scissor keeper with a simple blackwork embroidery design.
Make a case for all your knitting and crochet needles, hooks and accessories from an old pillowcase
Gift cards are such a useful gift idea but it's nice to make them a bit special by making them their own felt envelopes.
How to make a cute patchwork drawstring bag, perfect for toys or other baby and toddler paraphernalia.
How to use simple embroidery on bright polka dot fabric and then turn it into a sweet little tote bag.
Cross stitch is a lovely traditional craft. Here’s what you’ll need to get started if you want to give it a try.
It’s Sew a Softie time, I’m sharing a tutorial to make your own simple Trick or Treat bag with spooky halloween eyes. There’s a bonus mini spider bag charm too.
Today I’m sharing a tutorial to make a case for your crochet hooks over on Minerva Crafts.
How to turn an old, vintage, family heirloom of a wedding dress into memory art work that you can enjoy all the time
My adventures in the world of punch needle embroidery courtesy of a Makerly craft subscription box.
How to sew cute little strawberries filled with lavender to make wardrobe fresheners or scented sachets.
How to sew a softie spider. An easy tutorial to make a sweet little spider toy, perfect for beginners.
A collection of great projects to sew for a new baby. Perfect for baby shower gifts or to make yourself when you’re expecting.
Did you have new socks for Christmas? If you are clearing out any of your old, tatty or holey socks then why not try making a cute sock animal?
An old fairisle jumper that had shrunk in the wash is transformed into Christmas tree decorations and cards in a few simple steps. Make your own simple Christmas tree decorations.
Unicorns are everywhere at the moment. I'm not complaining, I love a good unicorn! So i thought I'd show you how to make a cute little unicorn ornament for your Christmas tree.
A simple repair on an old cardigan, not quite visible mending but not invisible either. I'm calling it slightly visible mending!
How to turn children’s drawings into soft toys, some hints and tips to sew a unique and personal gift
Make a dent in your fabric stash by making a garland of pretty bunting with this easy sewing tutorial.
Give a plain old tote bag a pretty ruffled makeover with scraps of fabric. Stripes of blue and white give it a look reminiscent of Cornishware pottery.
A review of April's Craftiosity craft kit subscription box to make a cork passport holder.
Embroidery embellishment on clothing seems to be everywhere in the shops right now and it's easy to create a little of this look at home.
A simple stitched Cushion Cover, or the snappily titled "Getting to Know my Sewing Machine a little better" Cushion Cover!
I finally turned the old patchwork bedspread my Nan made for me in the 1970's into a cosy new throw and a fun tote bag.
Take an old, thin, limp scarf and turn it into a fuller infinity loop scarf in just a few simple steps.
A great quick sewing gift idea that uses some of your fabric scraps. Make a handy case for your pocket pack tissues or kleenex.
You don't need to know any fancy embroidery stitches to give a bag a new look. Here I've taken a pre made bag and just added some running stitches to give it a 'boro' ish look.
Take a ready made cushion cover, scraps of fabric and a few simple embroidery stitches and you can make a pretty cushion / pillow.
A perfect sewing project for an absolute beginner. An easy to make top, from jersey fabric with just 4 straight seams.
How to add elastic to Jeans Waistband. A simple fix if your kids are tall and slim to help their jeans fit a little better.
A simple gloves refashion, add some simple folk art to some old gloves to give them a whole new look.
Give an old scarf a new look and make it easier to wear by turning it into an infinity loop scarf.
Make a strong and practical tote bag from a tea towel. A simple sewing project, ideal for beginners.
Refashion your clothes
Tips and hints that I learnt when making a blouse from an old tablecloth, hopping on to the trend of making garments from old embroidered linen
How to embellish an old plain shirt with some simple embroidery stitches, a lovely and mindful slow stitching project.
How to give an old denim jacket a fresh new look with fabric paint and some simple embroidery.
How to fix small holes in old garments using simple embroidery stitches and a visible mending technique
Update an old sweatshirt with an embroidered patchwork heart applique. Great to cover a logo or design you no longer want or to upgrade a plain top.
How to turn a men’s button down shirt into a summer top for a woman. A simple shirt refashion.
How to add a little Suisse or Chicken Scratch embroidery to an old gingham top to give it a refashion and a whole new look.
Embroidery embellishment on clothing seems to be everywhere in the shops right now and it's easy to create a little of this look at home.
A quick and easy way to brighten up a plain old jumper or sweater, giving it a simple daisy embroidery.
Take an old, thin, limp scarf and turn it into a fuller infinity loop scarf in just a few simple steps.
This grey star sweatshirt was just a little to monochrome for my taste so I've given it a little stitching makeover to add just a touch of colour.
Check and lace shirt refashion. I took an old check shirt and gave it a little tweak with some lace to make it more wearable.
After spotting a beautiful but expensive top in the shops I set out to recreate it using 2 charity shop tops. 2 stripped t-shirts in different colours combine to make one colour block Breton style top.
A free cross stitch and needlepoint pattern, colourful nasturtiums