Beyond the Hoop: Creative Ways to Display and Use Your Embroidery
Hello, my artsy friend! You did it—you finished your embroidery piece (cue the happy dance)! But now you’re staring at it, wondering, what do I actually do with this?
If your first instinct is to tuck it in a drawer or keep it in the hoop forever, you’re not alone. But embroidery doesn’t have to live in a frame on the wall—unless you want it to! Your stitches can go way beyond the hoop and become part of your everyday life.
Whether you're looking for gift ideas, home decor inspo, or just want to show off your creative side, here are seven fun and functional ways to use and display your embroidery:
1. Frame It Like a Pro
Let’s start with a classic—framing. But don’t limit yourself to store-bought shadow boxes. Try floating your piece in a glass frame, mounting it on colorful fabric, or even repurposing a vintage frame for some personality. This instantly gives your work a polished, gallery-worthy look—without the stuffy vibe.
2. Turn It Into a Bookmark
Small designs make the cutest bookmarks. Stitch onto a strip of linen or cotton, then back it with felt for sturdiness. Add a tassel if you’re feeling extra. Bonus: these make thoughtful gifts for teachers, friends, or book club besties.
3. Make a Patch (and Wear Your Art!)
Let your embroidery hit the streets! Cut out your stitched piece, back it with iron-on adhesive, and turn it into a patch you can apply to jackets, backpacks, or canvas totes. You can also hand-sew it on for a more handmade finish. Stick-and-stitch designs are perfect for this.
4. Create Keepsake Ornaments
Holiday, birthday, or just-because ornaments are a charming way to repurpose your work. Use mini hoops or felt shapes, add a ribbon loop, and boom—your stitches are tree (or shelf) ready. These are especially sweet for baby’s first Christmas, friendship gifts, or milestone mementos.
5. Stitch on Clothing or Accessories
Turn something ordinary into something totally you. Try embellishing baby clothes, denim jackets, hats, or even reusable tote bags with embroidery. It’s a fun way to refresh what you already own—and cover up a mystery stain or two along the way.
6. Make a Mini Wall Hanging
Not into hoops or frames? Mount your finished embroidery onto fabric and hang it from a wooden dowel, driftwood, or even a branch from your backyard. Add fringe, pom-poms, or a pop of color to make it extra fun. Hello, boho vibes.
7. Use a Hoop… in a Fresh Way
Want to keep it in the hoop? Go for it! But give it a glow-up—paint the outer ring, wrap it in fabric or ribbon, or hang multiple pieces together in a mini gallery wall. Hoops don’t have to be boring, and grouped together, they can totally transform a space.
Wrap-Up: Your Art Deserves to Be Seen
Embroidery doesn’t have to live in a box or be saved “for later.” Your work is art. It’s personal. It’s you. So let it be part of your home, your style, your everyday world.
Whether you stitch for relaxation, expression, or connection, your creativity deserves a spot in the spotlight—even if it’s just on your favorite tote.
Just getting started?
I'd love to be part of your journey, so I’ve created a fun practice pattern that lets you learn everything from a back stitch to the french knot. Download your free pattern and guide to stitch along with me! The pattern has 15 different stitches for you to practice. And if you need help, I’ve got you! Hop over to my master stitch list or connect with me on YouTube to watch step-by-step videos for each of the stitches.
Happy stitching, my artsy friend! 🪡✨
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