Adding a Twisted Thread Trim to your Cross Stitch Pillow

So as promised I am back to teach you how to add a twisted thread trim to your cross stitch. It will end up looking similar to the picture above. I apologise for the bad photos. Same reason as last week as it was raining when I had the chance to make this project. Also the best place to twist the thread was the door knob which meant that the photos aren’t the best.

Materials:

• You will need yarn of some kind. I have quite a supply of 8ply acrylics so I use those, but you could also use cross stitch threads (the six strands together) in matching colours from your design.
• Good fabric glue. I love love love love the brand shown in the pictures last week. It’s a fabric glue by a company called Helmar. I just bought it at spotlight. You will need a fabric glue for this. I haven’t tried a hot glue gun but it’s just easier with the fabric glue.
• Your cross stitch pillow.

Instructions:

Cut thread that is at least 6 times the length of what you are wanting to edge. This is important as the twisting process shrinks the length of thread significantly. It’s been a while since I last used this edge and I forgot how much you really do need. Extra can be cut off while you can’t easily add more.

Double it over a door handle or anything that you can pull against. Chairs and other people work really well. If you can get them to stand still holding the thread long enough. Or if you’re coordinated you could both twist at the same time to help take less time…. I’m never coordinated enough.

Step 2.

Start twisting. Choose a direction and just start twisting this can take AAAAAGGGEESSS.

Pull the thread out because otherwise it will tangle up as shown below. Although you want it to do this just not until you are ready.

When you have twisted it really really really really really well fold in half and smooth it out. Cut it off the door and add a knot.

If you don’t twist it enough you end up with a thicker, looser rope. It depends what effect you are going for. I liked the thicker one I made mainly because it was long enough to go around. But it is something to watch for. If it is too loose it won’t maintain a nice twist.

Now you have your rope/ twisted thread I’m going to show you how to you add it to your pillow.

In my excitement over adding the thread I forgot to photograph the first part (though you can see it in the photo below). Along to top of the pillow CAREFULLY cut the sewn threads, to open out a gap. This is why you had to make sure the top of your pillow was sewn on the machine. If they have been handsewn they tend to fall apart a little easier when sewn by the machine it holds better at the edges.

Before you place the thread end inside the hole coat it with glue and stick it in.

With the glue carefully glue down the edge of the two fabrics and stick the thread down. Work in small sections as this glue does dry quickly. Also you really don’t need a lot of glue for it to stick down.

Once you get around to the beginning glue to the opening and then create a loop with the thread. Cut off any excess and coat the end in glue before sticking it down the hole.

You can see here how you can’t see the hole as it’s been covered by the thread that has been glued down.

This glue doesn’t take long to dry so make sure you have it placed where you want it quickly and carefully. Use a bit of glue to make sure the opening is covered by the thread and closed and hold it there for a couple of seconds.

Doesn’t it add a nice effect to your pillow? Quite an easy way to turn your pillow into a hanging ornament and use it on your tree. Or in this case I think on the door. Inside I don’t trust outside.

Happy Stitching,

Caitlin

Caitlin (37 Posts)

My mother taught me to crochet when I was 9 and I was hooked. Since then I do any craft that tickles my fancy which at the moment includes cross stitch, knitting, crochet, quilting and sewing toys and clothes. I like to always have something to do.