Embroidery photography

✨ Project Overview

Students will select one of their own black and white photographs and use embroidery floss to enhance emphasis within the image. By adding embroidery, they will highlight key areas, draw the viewer’s eye, and explore how tactile elements can change the visual impact.

🎯 Objectives

• Understand and apply the design principle of emphasis.
  
  

• Explore mixed media by combining photography and embroidery.
  
  

• Develop skills in planning composition beyond digital editing.
  
  

• Practice careful handcraft and attention to detail.
  
  

📷 Materials Needed

• Printed black and white photographs on matte photo paper or cardstock (8×10 recommended)
  
  

• Embroidery floss (assorted colors)
  
  

• Embroidery needles
  
  

• Push pins or awl for pre-punching holes
  
  

• Cardboard or foam board for support while piercing
  
  

• Pencil for marking stitch points
  
  

• Tape to secure thread on the back

Prepare for Embroidery

1. • Lay your photo on cardboard or foam board.
     
     

   • Use a push pin or awl to carefully pierce holes along your planned stitch lines (spacing them about 1/8–1/4 inch apart).
     
     

Embroider

1. • Thread your needle with embroidery floss.
     
     

   • Stitch into your photo carefully, using simple stitches (backstitch, running stitch) to outline or embellish areas.
     
     

   • Keep the back neat by taping down loose threads.
     
     

   • Use color and line to emphasize your chosen focal point.

Finalize

1. • Trim any excess threads.
     
     

   • Mount your piece on black construction paper or mat board for display.
     
     

💡 Tips for Success

• Choose areas that will contrast nicely with the black and white image.
  
  

• Limit yourself to 2–3 colors of floss to avoid distraction.
  
  

• Work slowly to avoid tearing the paper.