Ever since I recognized that my retirement was going to be upon me quickly (about 10 years ago), I was planning to do something with all that free time that was interesting, fun and hopefully, profitable.  At the same time, I discovered machine embroidery.

I cannot sew a stitch - well maybe a stitch or two can be acceptable - but when I saw the possibility of selling my embroidery, I was doubly hooked.   Along the way I found Etsy.  If you have not looked at Etsy, you are missing some interesting things.

Etsy is a selling venue for crafters of all types.  Your item must be hand made in some fashion.  For instance, I sell hankies for brides.   I don't have to make the hankie, but I must create something crafty with that hankie. 

Here are examples:

The hankies are not expensive and I sell them for $15 each with no shipping or handling charges.   Another, very successful embroiderer on Etsy sells them for $19.  After doing the above writing (may I say novel?), I now understand why she charges more than I do. 

However, I found a design for a beautiful Battenburg Lace FSL bridal glove and just started to sell.  I love it and found it to be easy and turns out perfectly! 

(Photos courtesy of Advanced Embroidery)

The one drawback to this design is that it must be done in cotton thread, both top and bobbin.  Since quilters have a preference for cotton thread, it was easy to find and the color selection was great. 

My first set was done in an off white.

Here is what happened to my machine - - -

By the time I was done, it was a lot worse!  So I did have to do some cleaning, that cotton was throwing lint everywhere.

I love them and hope that brides and prom attendees will love them too.

And, since it is nearing the holiday season, I started putting together my FSL mini ornaments that I attach to bows, small decorations and in cards.  I love doing them, but they can be a problem because of their size.  They tend to curl up and when they dry, they remain in that position.  

I did find a solution that does not involve ironing - ugh, who needs more work? 

I use my brayer to flatten them when they are wet:

Fold the towel over top of the FSL - -

And then reroll the brayer over the FSL - -

And the result is flat FSL that is still 3 dimensional!

If you would like more information on FSL, check my blog on the stabilizer and FSL.

If you like to do some fun things with labels and cards, check out the Avery templates for Football, Halloween and other fun fall ideas.