Step 1- prep work
Cut your item. In this case a linen handkerchief.
Finish edges (I also like to do any hem treatments now)
Trace your pattern
Frame (optional, I like it as it keeps it flat. You want it snug but not drum tight)
Step 2- outline
Back stitch or holbein works well depending on the size of the project you can do several rows of stitches to build up your outline
*you can choose to do your bars now or later. If you are planning on rolling your cut edges under your stitches do the bars now
With the outline done you can move on to the next step depending on your preference. I like to keep the fabric intact until the very end I find it leads to less puckering and the raw edge will work is way under your stitching on its own.
*If you would rather not have a raw edge on your piece you have to take some steps to prevent it for stretching weird. Moving slowly cut small snips out of the middle of your cut space. Carefully roll these bits under and enclose them with your buttonhole stitch. Careful to not cut your bars and work from the center out.
Step 3- buttonhole stitch everything
Starting from the middle buttonhole stitch over your outline with the flat edge of the stitch along the area you will cut away. Details on the middle will also be covered with buttonhole stitch. When you come to one of your bars that connect two areas that will not be caught go back and forth from the middle of the outline to the middle of the outline 3 times (all crossings should be above the fabric) then using the buttonhole stitch around these crossing till you are back to the original outline. Continue till everything is done.
This is the longest part take your time it will be worth it I promise
Step 4- prepare to cut
Now that you finished stitching take a break. Pat yourself on the back
Remove from the frame and wash. I do this by hand. Let it dry and iron flat. I put the work back into the frame to cut as it keeps everything stable you don't have to do this
Carefully cut as close to your embroidered edge as you can. If you are really worried about it all falling apart use frey check before cutting. Go slowly I use embroidery scissors but I know folks who will use an exacto knife. Be careful not to cut the bars but if you do, cut them off and stitch again. It's pretty forgiving.
When you are done stand back and admire your work. If you find one area isn't as supported as you would like you can add more bars.
Congrats you have done cutwork!
