If you have an embroidery machine such as the Brother [SE400
Embroidering your scrapbooks, either by hand or with machine, will add a unique three-dimensional look to your pages. Embroidering on your scrapbook pages also allows you to easily attach elements to your pages while you are adding the stitchery itself. In addition, the embroidery thread itself adds color, texture, and depth to your design.
Try these four ideas to embellish your scrapbooks:
- Embroider titles of pages and photos using the monogramming feature
- Embroider the corners of the binder for a unique photo album look
- Embellish the pages with frames and borders in all sorts of designs. I particularly like the old Italian styles from Florence.
- Sprinkle all sorts of fun and cute little designs over the pages.
Scrapbooking Techniques Using an Embroidery Machine
- Use coordinating fabric for the background of the entire page.
- Add an embroidered Christmas or other special message with the date
- Embroider a frame for the photos using one of the built-in frame patterns
- Use the trial feature in your embroidery machine to test out the size of the shape that you have chosen. Sew out with a straight stitch for the initial frame pattern. Sew out the shape of the frame (note the size of the frame that you have sewn out.)
- Cut out the center of the frame fabric along the straight stitching, while the fabric is still in the hoop.
- Use the Back button to select a decorative frame in the same size, proceed to embroider.
- Place the photo behind the embroidered frame.
Some Tips for Machine Sewing and Embroidery on Paper
The techniques for sewing on paper are basically the same as sewing on fabric with a couple of important adjustments.
- You must be sure that you won’t run out of bobbin thread before you complete your design because if you sew without thread you’ll make permanent holes in the paper.
- Use a small amount of clear tape or a dab of glue to fasten the loose threads to the back of the work instead of tying the thread ends or back-stitching.
Embroidering and sewing is an easy and fun way to add interest and design to your scrapbooks. Countless types of thread and paper are available for creating your own personal style. You can sew papers together or simply embroider to embellish. You can download a vast number of free embroidery designs from the Internet to enhance your pages.
If you have an embroidery machine such as a Brother SE400, you’re good to go. If not, check out the Brother SE400 Reviews over at The Brother SE400 Enthusiast to find out if it’s the right embroidery machine for you.