The best part about embroidery is that you don't need a room full of craft supplies to begin. Just a few simple tools are enough to get started.
I remember thinking embroidery would be an expensive hobby. Every photo I saw online seemed to feature baskets overflowing with colourful threads, dozens of hoops, and countless needles. I assumed I'd need to buy everything before I could even make my first stitch. But when I finally started, I realized I'd been overcomplicating it. In reality, you only need a handful of basic supplies to complete your first project.
Sometimes, having fewer choices actually makes learning easier.
The Short Answer
To start embroidery, you'll need:
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Fabric
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An embroidery hoop
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Embroidery thread
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Embroidery needles
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Small scissors
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A pattern or design
If you're a complete beginner, an embroidery kit is often the easiest way to start because it includes everything you need in one package.
1. Embroidery Fabric
Every project starts with fabric.
For beginners, it's best to choose:
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Cotton fabric
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Linen
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Pre-printed embroidery fabric
A smooth, tightly woven fabric makes it easier to place even stitches and learn the basics.
I found that using a pre-printed pattern helped me focus on stitching instead of worrying about drawing the design first.
2. An Embroidery Hoop
An embroidery hoop keeps the fabric stretched while you work.
This helps you:
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Make neater stitches
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Prevent wrinkles
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Keep even tension
Hoops come in different sizes, but a medium-sized hoop is perfect for most beginner projects.
3. Embroidery Thread
Embroidery floss is specially designed for decorative stitching.
It comes in hundreds of colours, allowing you to create everything from simple flowers to detailed landscapes.
Most beginner patterns only use a small selection of colours, so there's no need to buy every shade at once.
4. Embroidery Needles
Embroidery needles have:
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A sharp point
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A larger eye to fit embroidery thread
Using the right needle makes stitching much smoother and easier than trying to use a regular sewing needle.
5. Small Embroidery Scissors
A pair of small, sharp scissors helps you trim thread neatly without damaging the fabric.
They're one of those tools you don't think much about until you have them—and then you wonder how you managed without them.
6. A Pattern
A pattern gives you something to stitch.
As a beginner, simple designs are usually the most enjoyable.
Popular first projects include:
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Flowers
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Leaves
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Hearts
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Simple quotes
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Botanical designs
Starting with a clear pattern helps build confidence while you're learning new stitches.
Should You Buy Everything Separately?
You certainly can, but many beginners find it easier to start with an embroidery kit.
A typical beginner kit often includes:
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Fabric with a printed pattern
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Embroidery hoop
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Thread
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Needles
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Instructions or video tutorials
That means you can begin stitching straight away without wondering whether you've forgotten something.
What You Don't Need
One of the biggest surprises for new stitchers is how little equipment embroidery actually requires.
You don't need:
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Expensive machines
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Large craft rooms
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Dozens of specialty tools
A few basic supplies are enough to create beautiful handmade projects.
A Quick Aside About Collecting Supplies
It's easy to get excited and buy every colour of thread or every size of hoop. The truth is, your collection will grow naturally over time. Start with the essentials, complete a few projects, and you'll soon discover which tools you genuinely enjoy using.
My Personal Takeaway
Starting embroidery is much simpler than most people expect. With fabric, a hoop, thread, needles, scissors, and a beginner-friendly pattern, you'll have everything you need to create your first project. If you're completely new to the craft, a beginner embroidery kit can make the whole experience even easier, letting you focus on learning and enjoying every stitch rather than gathering supplies.