FAQs Archive - Page 2 of 7 - Studio Koekoek | sustainable craft kits and supplies

Q: When does the course start?

After purchase you'll directly get access to the online course. So you can start directly!

Q: Can I join after the first release date?

Yes! If you join after the first release date you will also receive all the previous patterns from the stitch along.

Q: What is a Secret Stitch Along?

With a Secret Stitch Along - also referred to as a SAL - you buy a kit but you don't know exactly what you will stitch until the moment you'll get the pattern. The pattern is released in different parts, and only with the last pattern piece you will get the total picture. Participants of the Studio Koekoek's Secret Stitch Along 2023 will be the first to finish a fun counted cross stitch kit that will only be released in our collection of 2024.

Q: Is the Stitch Along suitable for beginners?

If you're a complete beginner we recommend to choose the kit with the antique white Aida fabric. It's the easiest to stitch on this fabric. We include illustrated step by step instructions in all kits, so if you're up for a little challenge you can also pick one of the other options. We personally love the dark blue version. The blue fabrics make the floss colors pop. And of course if you have any questions while stitching, we're always happy to help!

Q: What is included in the Secret Stitch Along kit?

Contents of the Secret Stitch Along cross stitch kit: DMC embroidery floss Antique White Aida 16 count, Night Blue Aida 16 count or Oliv coloured evenweave linen 32 count (depending on your choice) 2 embroidery needles 12 inch embroidery hoop 6 inch embroidery hoop Wooden beads to add extra elements to your piece Decorative cord for finishing your piece And we'll also include: Step by step cross stitch instructions for beginners Video tutorial for framing your finished piece in the double hoops Instructions for obtaining your patterns. At each release date you will receive digital PDF copies with the counted cross stitch patterns, both a full color version and a gray version for easy reading of the pattern.

Q: Can I follow this course in English?

At the moment this course is Dutch only. But please contact us to share your interest. We'll feel extra motivated to translate the content as soon as possible ;-).

Q: Can you use normal thread for embroidery?

Can you use normal thread for embroidery? Yes. You can use any type of thread for stitching, including normal sewing thread. The result will be different with any type of thread that you use. But potentially you can even use thick yarn to create embroidery. The way how you make the stitches will be exactly the same. The look and feel of your stitches will be a world of difference.

Q: Can you embroider without an embroidery hoop?

Can you embroider without an embroidery hoop? Yes, it is possible to embroider without a hoop. We prefer to use a hoop as it helps to stabilize the fabric. And that helps to create even and neat stitches. But there are embroidery artists that prefer to have a free flowing fabric. It does require experience to ensure you'll get a nice result witouth a hoop, but it's not impossible ;-).

Q: Is it hard to embroider?

Is it hard to embroider? Embroidery is not hard to learn. No matter how complicated-looking the result, embroidery is remarkably easy. If you can use a needle and thread, you can embroider. Embroidery is an ancient old craft and almost all cultures accross the world use(d) one or more techniques of embroidery to make their clothes or fabrics stand out. At our blog you can learn step by step how to master the basics of embroidery.

Q: What is the easiest embroidery stitch to start with?

What is the easiest embroidery stitch to start with? When you're completly new to stitching you may want to start with the easiest embroidery stitch for beginners. We believe that's the cross stitch. For cross stitching you will use Aida fabrics that has an even gridded pattern. You can learn more about cross stitching in our tutorial for beginners . We also have a lot of cross stitch patterns for beginners. Alternativly you can also give Sashiko stitching a go . That's made with a simple running stitch and hence very suitable for beginners. But of course the most important thing is that you like the potential end result. Every embroidery technique has a different end result. If you're a creative soul and you love to paint, you may appreciate to start directly with free hand embroidery.