This is a popular way for pattern templates to be provided in kits. The design is pre-printed on transfer paper. This method works best on lighter coloured fabrics. Depending on the brand, the outlines may be removable.

IN A NUTSHELL: The pattern template is provided to you as an iron-on transfer (in reverse), which you place face-down onto your fabric. By applying heat with an iron, the design adheres to the fabric’s surface (facing the right way).

You will need

• Iron-on transfers of your design template

• Dressed hoop (e.g. fabric mounted tightly in the hoop and excess fabric trimmed off)

• Heat Iron

How to:

NOTE: Below is a quick summary, but it’s important to follow the instructions provided with the specific ready-made iron-on transfer that you’re using. This is because different brands may have slightly different guidelines for optimal results. The ones shown here are from Love Embroidery magazine, designed by Vivian Yiwing.

Step 1

Place: Place the iron-on transfer ink-side down on the top side of the fabric. Ensure it is centred and covers the desired area.

Step 2

Heat: Apply heat using a hot dry iron (take care with the heat to avoid damaging your fabric). As you do this, you need to be really careful that you don’t move the transfer around.

Tip to keep transfer in place: You could secure it with some heat-resistant pins.

Step 3

Check: Allow the fabric to cool, then lift up a corner of the transfer, to check it has fully transferred before you remove it. If not, go ahead and iron it again.

Step 4

Remove: Once it’s cooled and transferred properly, remove the transfer.

Now your template has been transferred to your pattern and you can move to the next step of making your pattern, well done!

Removing the template lines:

This will depend on the brand of your transfers, but they may remove with washing or fade over time. It pays to check this before you proceed, in case the lines are permanent and need to be covered with stitches.

Now your template has been transferred to your pattern and you can move to the next step of making your pattern, fantastic work!

Conclusion

I hope that this guide has made it easy and fun for you to transfer your patterns onto your material, without being overwhelmed.

I encourage you to practice transferring your pattern on with different techniques, and you’ll find a favourite method that you can easily whip out each time you start a new project.

What's next? 

Check out this blog to learn all the other methods you can use for transferring your pattern onto your fabric.

I’ve designed this blog so that you can choose a method to try, and then jump straight to that bit to learn all about it and get started.

Enjoy the process of transferring your pattern and bringing your embroidery to life!

I would love to hear how you go on your embroidery journey.

Make sure you share you progress with me! Just tag me on the 'gram @cleverpoppy.

Happy stitching!