Behind-The-Scenes ~ My Favorite Tools for Paper Embroidery ~ Part 3

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My Favorite Tools for Paper Embroidery ~ A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Supplies I Use Most Often

When people first discover paper embroidery, one of the most common questions they ask is:

"What supplies do I actually need?"

The good news is that paper embroidery is one of the most affordable and beginner-friendly crafts to start. Unlike some hobbies that require a long list of specialized tools, you can create beautiful projects with just a few basic supplies.

Over the years, I've experimented with different papers, needles, floss, and accessories. While everyone develops their own preferences, there are a handful of tools I consistently reach for when working on paper embroidery projects.

Today I'm sharing some of my favorites, along with a few things beginners can skip when they're just getting started.

My Favorite Needles

The right needle can make stitching smoother and more enjoyable.

Since paper embroidery uses pre-punched holes, I prefer one needle sharp enough to pass through cardstock easily but others, such as a tapestry needle, that are comfortable enough to hold during longer stitching sessions and have a large eye for threading floss through the eye.

Sizes I Use Most Often

Size 24 Tapestry Needle – roughly 2 inches

• My go-to choice for most projects and comfortable for beginners
• Easy to thread and works well with multiple strands of floss
• The blunted or rounded tip is easier to use if holes are pre-punches

Darning Needle – roughly 3.5 inches

• My go-to choice for punching holes
• The pointed tip helps cut through the cardstock without tearing the paper

Size 7 Sewing Needle – roughly 1 inches

• Smallest size
• Great for finer details

Crewel Needle – roughly 3.5 inches

• This is a slightly thicker needle I occasionally need for larger holds. Example: Threading 6 strands of floss through multiple times. (see the Tulip Template)

One thing I've learned is that comfort matters. If a needle feels awkward in your hand, stitching becomes less enjoyable. Finding a size that feels natural can make a big difference.

The Cardstock I Keep Coming Back To

Paper is one of the most important supplies in paper embroidery.

I've tested everything from inexpensive craft paper to premium cardstock, and I almost always return to a medium-weight cardstock.

My favorite cardstock has:

• a smooth surface
• minimal texture
• enough thickness to support stitching
• compatibility with home printers

For most projects, I prefer cardstock in the 60–80 lb range.

This weight holds stitches well without becoming difficult to punch.

Double-check printer settings before purchasing card stock. Most home printers do not handle heavy cardstock very well.

• 4x6 Black Cardstock
• 4x6 Kraft Cardstock
• 5x7 Cream Cardstock
• Assorted Sizes White Cardstock
• 8.5x11 White Cardstock

(As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Favorite Colors

I tend to use:

• bright white
• warm cream
• kraft cardstock
• black cardstock

Each creates a completely different mood for a design.

White and cream are timeless, while kraft cardstock gives projects a more rustic, handmade feel.

My Favorite Embroidery Floss

When it comes to embroidery floss, I almost always reach for DMC.

The color selection is incredible, the quality is consistent, and it's easy to find replacement skeins if I run out.

One of my favorite parts of designing templates is experimenting with color palettes. I might suggest buying a large pack of colors and choose your favorites. 

Favorite Floral Pinks

• DMC 961
• DMC 3716
• DMC 604

Favorite Yellows

• DMC 444
• DMC 745
• DMC 728

Favorite Purples

• DMC 554
• DMC 208
• DMC 210

Favorite Greens

• DMC 988
• DMC 3346
• DMC 581

These colors mix beautifully for floral designs and work well across multiple seasons.

Helpful Small Tools

While cardstock, floss, and a needle are the essentials, there are a few small tools that make the process easier.

Needle Minder

A magnetic accessory that holds your needle when you're not stitching. It's one of those tools that seems unnecessary until you use one.

Thread Snips

Small embroidery scissors make trimming floss quick and precise.

Mat Board, Styrofoam or foam board

This helps for punching holes without ruining any of your furniture.

Tools Beginners Don't Actually Need

One thing I wish more beginners knew is that you don't need a large collection of supplies to get started. In fact, many beautiful projects can be completed with just:

• cardstock
• embroidery floss
• a needle
• a way to punch holes
• a simple pattern

That's it.

It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking you need every new tool before you begin, but paper embroidery is wonderfully simple.

As your skills grow, you can always add tools later if they make the process more enjoyable.

• Cardstock - No need to purchase an entire set of blank cards. Print to medium card stock and cut to size
• Floss - Pick a few colors from the store to practice with. They're typically a $1-2. No need to buy a bulk supply of 100 colors.
• Needle - A quick pick up at the store. 
• Template - No software available? Go old school with pencil and paper. Create a light sketch on your card stock and make your own template.

Keep the styling clean and approachable.

Why I Design Simple Templates

When I create embroidery templates, I try to keep beginners in mind.

Simple patterns help reduce frustration and allow new stitchers to focus on learning the craft rather than managing complicated designs.

They also help crafters avoid purchasing unnecessary tools right away.

A beginner-friendly template paired with a few basic supplies is often all you need to create something beautiful.

That's one of the things I love most about paper embroidery—it proves that creativity doesn't have to be complicated.

Final Thoughts

Over the years, I've collected tools that make paper embroidery easier and more enjoyable, but the truth is that the best projects don't come from having the most supplies.

They come from sitting down, picking up a needle, and enjoying the creative process.

If you're just getting started, keep it simple. A few basic tools, some cardstock, and a beginner-friendly pattern are more than enough to create something you're proud of.

If you're looking for beginner-friendly paper embroidery patterns, my printable templates are designed to work with simple supplies and basic stitches, making them a great starting point for new stitchers.

Embroidery Pattern on Paper

Follow the series:
Behind the Scenes ~ Part 1 ~ How I Design My Templates

Thanks for stopping by!

Becca

***While I'm thrilled to share my step-by-step directions, the good and the bad, these are intended for your personal use. I'm always happy to hear and see what my bloggers have been working on. BUT a lot of work goes into these creations and while I have no issues sharing so you are able to create the work for your precious homes please understand that selling an exact duplication of my designs is highly frowned upon. :( Please always be considerate of another artists work. Thank you!***