Embroidering Velvet Cushions for an Embossed Effect

Velvet is one of those fabrics that instantly elevates a project. Its rich texture and light-catching sheen make it a standout material for home décor, fashion, and accessories. But if you’ve ever tried to embroider velvet, you’ll know it can be a challenge, especially if you want to maintain that luxurious surface without crushing the pile. In this blog, we’ll show you how we created a set of elegant velvet cushions with an embossed look using Hatch Embroidery software, without ever hooping the fabric.

We used three beautiful chrysanthemum designs on a deep blue velvet, stitched with Backstitch and digitized using the Redwork tool. On the mustard velvet, we used Contour stitch to create a stylized ginkgo leaf pattern and Stemstitch for the stems. The result? Two sets of cushions with a subtle, tone-on-tone look that reads as both sophisticated and timeless.

Why Velvet + Embroidery Works (If Done Right)

Velvet isn’t just a pretty face, it’s also dense and plush, which can give embroidery an almost sculptural quality when you use the right stitch types. By using single-line stitch styles like Stem and Contour, you can create designs that sit lightly on the surface while still making a bold visual impact. And when you match the thread color closely to the velvet, you get an embossed or engraved look that’s stunning in its simplicity.

But the very texture that makes velvet so appealing is also what makes it tricky. Hoop it the wrong way, and you’ll flatten the pile. Use the wrong stabilizer, and your design could shift or sink. That’s why careful preparation is key.

Digitizing for an Embossed Effect

We created our embroidery designs in Hatch Embroidery software, choosing tools and stitch types that would enhance the luxurious look of velvet without overwhelming it.

Chrysanthemum Designs on Blue Velvet

For the blue cushions, we chose three chrysanthemum motifs. Using the Redwork tool in Hatch, we digitized the outline of each flower, allowing us to keep the stitch path efficient and clean. We then applied Backstitch to the outlines, which gave each petal soft dimension with a subtle raised effect.

Ginkgo Design on Mustard Velvet

On the mustard velvet cushions, we digitized a ginkgo leaf design using the Contour stitch and Stem stitch. The Contour stitch follows the shape of the object and creates graceful, curved lines that echo the natural veining of ginkgo leaves. The result was a set of bold, modern velvet cushions with flowing organic shapes that appear pressed into the fabric rather than stitched on top.

Stitching the Velvet Cushions

Floating the Fabric (No Hooping!)

One of the most important things we did to protect the fabric’s texture was to float the velvet rather than hoop it. Hooping velvet can crush the pile permanently, leaving unsightly marks that ruin the luxurious look.

Instead of hooping the velvet directly, we hooped a piece of medium-weight cut-away stabilizer and then floated the velvet on top, securing it with temporary adhesive spray. For extra stability, we also basted the velvet to the stabilizer using Hatch’s Basting Box feature. This kept everything in place during stitching without damaging the fabric.

Thread Choices for a Tone-on-Tone Look

To keep the look sophisticated and subtle, we chose thread colors that closely matched the fabric - deep navy for the blue velvet cushion, and golden ochre for the mustard velvet cushions. This tone-on-tone approach enhances the embossed effect and makes the stitching look like it’s part of the velvet itself, rather than sitting on top of it.

We used standard 40wt embroidery thread for both cushions. You could experiment with matte finish threads for an even softer look, or try metallics for a more decorative result—just be mindful of tension and needle type when working with specialty threads on velvet.

From Fabric to Finished Velvet Cushions

Once the embroidery was complete, we gently removed the stabilizer from the back and pressed the velvet from the reverse side using a pressing cloth and no steam. Avoid touching the embroidered side directly with an iron, as it could flatten your stitching or damage the pile.

Then we sewed the panels into cushion covers. For the ginkgo design, we opted for rectangular lumbar cushions to accentuate the horizontal flow of the leaves. The chrysanthemum cushions were finished as classic square pillows, perfect for a cozy corner or elegant lounge.

Final Thoughts

Velvet and embroidery may seem like a risky combination, but with the right approach- and the powerful digitizing tools in Hatch Embroidery - you can create elegant, embossed-style designs that transform your fabric into works of art. Whether you're decorating your own home or creating high-end gifts, velvet cushions like these are sure to make a statement.

So the next time you’re looking for a way to elevate your embroidery projects, don’t shy away from velvet. Just float, digitize smartly, and let the texture do the talking.

Ready to try it yourself?

Fire up Hatch Embroidery, choose a simple line design, and test it on a scrap of velvet using Stem or Contour stitch. You’ll be amazed at how little thread it takes to make a big impact.

The definite choice when selecting embroidery software

Hatch Embroidery software is a comprehensive embroidery design solution that offers a range of tools and features for both beginners and seasoned embroiderers.

Here’s why it's a great choice:

• User-Friendly Interface: The software is designed with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for anyone to start creating beautiful embroidery designs, regardless of their experience level.
• Powerful Editing Tools: It provides powerful editing tools that allow users to resize, edit, and adjust embroidery designs with precision. This is essential for businesses that need to customize designs according to specific customer requirements.
• Wide Range of Formats Supported: Hatch Embroidery supports a wide range of machine file formats, making it versatile for use with different embroidery machines. This flexibility is crucial for businesses operating with multiple machine types.
• Professional Quality: The software generates professional-quality stitches, ensuring that the end products are of high quality, which is vital for maintaining customer satisfaction and business reputation.
• Extensive Design Features: With features like auto-digitizing, lettering, monogramming, and even special effects, businesses can offer a wide range of embroidery services, increasing their market appeal and potential revenue streams.
• Regular Updates and Support: Hatch provides regular software updates and robust customer support, ensuring that businesses can always access the latest features and get help when needed.

Overall, Hatch Embroidery software equips you and your business with the tools necessary to create stunning, high-quality embroidery designs efficiently and effectively, enhancing productivity and customer satisfaction.

Hatch Embroidery software products are in popular use in over 120 countries. It is time to join the global trend and give Hatch a try! The 30-Day Free Trial grants you unlimited use of all the amazing features and the 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee ensures that there is absolutely no risk involved. In fact, choosing Hatch Embroidery software is one of the smartest things you can do when selecting suppliers and supplies for your home embroidery business.

Enjoy over 80 FREE lessons presented by our own embroidery experts in Hatch Academy. Grow your confidence and embroidery skills fast to start creating your own beautiful designs in no time!

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