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Embroider Tea Towels – In Time For Tea Month!

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Embroidery on tea towels is one of the easiest machine embroidery projects you can do. And, it’s the perfect time to do so! Did you know that January is Hot Tea Month? Isn’t that just perfect? January is the perfect month for snuggling down under a blanket or four with a steaming cup of tea (for us in the northern hemisphere, at least). Of course, it’s fun to throw a tea party now and again, too! Whether you are enjoying a hot beverage all on your own or sharing with friends, tea time features several great canvases perfect for enhancing with embroidery.

Tea towels are a traditional addition to any tea party. They originated inthe 18th century, when the lady of the household would use them to dry fine china and delicate tea sets — a job considered too important to trust to potentially clumsy servants.

Tea Towels machine embroidery They would also often be wrapped around the teapot to insulate it and prevent inelegant drips. One might also use a tea towel to cover a plate of goodies before serving.

Tea Towels machine embroidery Tea towels were often used as a vehicle for showing off embroidery skills — which they’re still great for today (though the embroidery might be produced a little differently…).

For days when you’re not sharing your tea, I’m personally a big fan of mug rugs — essentially mini-quilts with embroidery on the top. Embroider a 5”-6” square of fabric. Place a second square face-down, place a square of batting on top, then place the embroidered square face up on the top. Quilt if desired (it’s not strictly necessary on such a small piece of fabric), then bind. Voila! Mug rug!

You can go with any theme you want for your tea accessories. I’ve linked my favorites here — just click on the picture to follow the link.

Tea Towels machine embroidery
Tea Time Appliqué Collection
Tea Towels machine embroidery
Gloria McKinnon’s Priscilla Ladies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Doesn’t the Priscilla Lady look like she’s going to a tea party?

Tea Towels machine embroidery
Garden Party Collection
Tea Towels machine embroidery
Irresistible Insects Collection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You’d think the insects would be strange for tea, but they look great on a set of bright gingham towel blanks!

Tea Towels machine embroidery
Clover & Shamrocks Collection
Tea Towels machine embroidery
Diner Delights Collection

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tea Towels machine embroidery
Forest Friends Collection

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And here’s a little wink-wink design: this one is hot cocoa, not tea (the marshmallows make it hard to pretend otherwise!). But it’s cute, isn’t it?

Happy sipping!

Kate signature

 

 

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