Free Embroidery Designs

I need some help in determining the value of some family antique linens. Many of the pieces are white work – or cut work and embroidery (pillowcases/shams, sheets, towels). The most interesting white work piece is a welcoming sheet for newborns (37"x108") with an alternating pattern of cherubs and roses (mint). As for a hand crocheted item, there is an antique bedspread 90"x95" made from individual blocks of raised rosettes. It has a very nice border (needs minor repair). Any thoughts on selling at auction, selling privately, or holding on to them (although I know this is a personal decision).

Hi,

There are a number of books on valuing linens out that can help you get a rough idea – check local bookstore or library. . A general rule of thumb is that if the piece is 50-100 years old it is considered vintage. After 100 it is considered an antique. If you can do the repairs yourself do them or hire a seamstress. If they aren’t clean I recommend soaking in the bathtub for several days. You can add some "Linen Wash" if plain old water doesn’t do the trick.

Once clean and expertly pressed take digital pictures. Usually an overall and then detail pictures including any mended or damaged areas.

Value is determined by age, condition, intricacy and type of embroidery etc, whether it is hand made, rarity, ownership (belonged to a queen for example).

Also check listings on Ebay in the antique linens section and see what items like yours are going for.

Most auction sites are very user friendly for both buyers and sellers. You could also contact some collectors privately and inquire as to whether they would be interested in what you have (this is where good, clear photos are your best friend).

Or you may wish to keep some or all – I have items that I would never dream of selling because of who owned them and they will be passed down to my youngest who is the only one who would also keep them. Such items are priceless when it comes to sentimental value.

Best of luck. They sound lovely.

My sewing machine has a lot of "built in stitches" besides monogram…I was wondering if I could use it for embroidery..
I hate to have to have a special machine for the little bit of embroidery that I would want to do…

So long as your sewing machine can do zigzag stitches, go in reverse and forward and you can set the machine with zero pressure on the pressure foot, you can make some pretty darned cool embroidery. Just so long as you’re not trying to make precise stitches, as you would need for monograms.

What you need: An embroidery hoop, practice cloth, lots of thread, paper to back the design. A rough idea of what you want to do, as well as a washable drawing medium such as a chalk pencil. This works especially well on smaller, more free-form designs.

How to do it: Set the stitch for zigzag, draw the design on cloth, back with paper, set in hoop. Place under presser foot, with no pressure on foot. Go back and forth over drawing, experimenting with stitch length and bobbin tension. Caveat: doing this free-hand will not produce the smooth, professional style embroidery. More of an artisan style.

These instructions came with my sewing machine and I’ve used them with varying degrees of success. If you’d like more info, please just e-mail me; I’d hate to type exact instructions if you’re not interested!