Dmcthread's Blog

Itsy Bitsy Button Spider

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Have you noticed that it’s spider season – both outside and in? I just walked through a web yesterday while getting the mail … icky!!!!!!

But, like most of my daily experiences, it sparked inspiration – in the form of this fun pattern for a button spider in his embroidered web.

The embroidered area measures 4 x 4 inches square, and is attached to a 6.5 inch square of fabric.

To give the project some kick, I used CharlesCraft Bright Ideas 14-count Aida in Lemon Twist.  The Aida adds a bit of texture to the piece, as do the button spider body and Memory Thread legs.

I used 2 strands of DMC Six-Strand Embroidery Floss in color 310 black in back stitch for the web and the spider’s string, 3 strands of 906 Very Dark Emerald Green for the spider’s French knot eyes (I wrapped the thread 5 times around the needle).

Two strands of 970 Light Pumpkin was used for the blanket stitch edging, and the Memory Thread was couched in place using a single strand of color 310.

A 5/8″ button with 2 holes was used for the spider’s body – perfect for the spooky green eyes!

Use size 9 DMC Embroidery Needles for stitching, and your choice of a fun, funky fabric for the background, and get the pattern here.

Stitch the finishing ornament front and a 6.5″ piece of backing fabric together, right sides facing, using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Leave a 3-inch opening along the bottom edge for turning.

Clip the corners, turn right side out, stuff and stitch the opening closed. Add ribbon or cording for hanging.

Stitch, stuff and enjoy!

~Emma