Design Doodler: Embroidered Potato Pockets Tutorial for Beginners

Breaking Down the Article

• Introduction to the in-the-hoop potato pocket project
• Materials Required
• Step-by-step Instructions for Using Design Doodler Software
• Detailed Embroidering Process
• Final Touches and Usage Instructions

Introduction to the In-the-Hoop Potato Pocket Project

Looking to elevate your embroidery skills while adding a dash of fun to your kitchen? Our in-the-hoop potato pocket project combines creativity and practicality, offering a personalised kitchen accessory that’s both functional and delightful. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced embroiderer, this tutorial will guide you through each step using the versatile Design Doodler.

Materials Required

To create your in-the-hoop potato pocket, you will need:

• Four pieces of 10×10 inch neutral or “potato brown” cotton fabric
• An old towel cut into two 10×10-inch pieces
• One 10×10 inch piece of contrasting cotton lining material (pre-washed)
• Embroidery stabiliser – cutaway type recommended
• Embroidery thread – avoid using metallic threads
• Design Doodler software

Step-by-Step Instructions for Using Design Doodler Software

Step 1: Create the Potato Outline

Start by opening a new workspace in your Design Doodler software. Create a potato-shaped outline using a run stitch. For optimal size, use a 10×10-inch hoop and position the shape diagonally.

Step 2: Design the Potato Eyes

Use the free-form fill shape tool to doodle the spud eyes, adding personality to your potato.

Step 3: Add Lettering

Insert lettering by selecting the lettering tool. In the “properties” tab, change the text to “SPUD”. Adjust the position and alignment to complement your design.

Step 4: Duplicate the Outline

Duplicate the initial potato-shaped outline with a running stitch. This duplicated line will serve as a tack-down line for added stability. Save the design in your machine's required file format.

Detailed Embroidering Process

Step 1: Prepare the Hoop

Hoop a piece of cutaway stabiliser to create the two sides of the back.

Step 2: Cut the Towel

Cut one of the 10×10-inch towel pieces in half, resulting in two 5×10-inch pieces.

Step 3: Sandwich the Towel

Place one of the 10×10-inch brown cotton fabric squares with a towel piece halfway across. Fold the fabric over, creating a towel piece sandwiched by fabric. Create two of these flaps and set them aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Body

Hoop a medium-weight cutaway stabiliser. Flip the hoop over and secure the lining material on the back using temporary spray and tape if needed. Lightly spray with temporary adhesive and place the remaining 10×10 inch towel piece on it.

Step 5: Add the Fabric

Place a square of the neutral brown material over the towel piece on the hoop (still upside down). Stitch through all layers except the final tack-down line.

Step 6: Attach the Flaps

Remove the hoop from the machine and lay the two back flaps diagonally over the stitching surface. Reinsert the hoop into the machine and complete the final stitching line.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove the fabric from the hoop, trim the edges to ¼ inch, and turn the pocket inside out. Press to flatten and smoothen edges.

Using Your Potato Pocket

Slightly wet your new potato pocket under running water and insert a pierced potato. Microwave for 10-12 minutes, flipping once, until the potato is soft and easily pierced with a fork or knife. Remember, do not leave the potato pocket unattended in the microwave.

First Trim's Hot Take

This in-the-hoop potato pocket project is an excellent way to combine functionality with a touch of creativity in your kitchen. Perfect for beginners and seasoned embroiderers alike, this project showcases the versatility of the Design Doodler. Happy stitching! Original Article: https://www.digitizingmadeeasy.com/design-doodler-embroidered-potato-pockets-tutorial/