The Beginner’s Stitch Circle: Embroidery 101 with Made by Day

Discover the art of hand embroidery in this beginner-friendly workshop! You’ll learn essential stitches and tips for choosing the right threads and fabrics. We'll create this Virginia pattern to celebrate our state to decorate your space, along with the skills to keep creating on your own.

All materials provided; no experience necessary!

Once upon a time, I was an art history professor. Then life shifted, and I found myself in the thick of motherhood with four young kids. Between the endless laundry, school drop-offs, and mealtimes, I started to feel the need for a creative outlet—something that brought beauty and purpose into the daily rhythm.

I first turned to my sewing machine. I loved the idea of making things—quick little projects, even a few ambitious quilts. But as much as I enjoyed it, those big projects became hard to manage with little ones underfoot. I started asking myself: What will my kids remember about me? Will they see a mom who found joy in the small things? Who created beauty, even in the chaos? Or someone who was constantly overwhelmed and distracted?

That question led me to something smaller, quieter, and more meaningful: hand embroidery. It gave me a way to create in the margins of my day—while sitting with my kids, waiting in the car, or unwinding in the evening. It was soothing, satisfying, and surprisingly powerful.

But as I explored the world of modern embroidery, I noticed that many designs leaned heavily on sarcasm and snark. That didn’t feel like me. I wanted to make things that carried hope, joy, and light—something lasting. If I was going to invest my time and heart into stitching something, I wanted it to matter.

That’s how Made by Day began. I started designing embroidery kits that reflected my love of literature and my faith—pieces meant to inspire, encourage, and bring beauty into everyday life. Whether you’re a busy mom, a creative spirit, or simply someone looking for a meaningful pause, I hope my kits offer you a quiet space to breathe and create. One stitch at a time.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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