FAQ
I'VE NEVER EMBROIDERED BEFORE!
Where do I start?
Right here! Since 2001, the mission of Sublime Stitching is to offer contemporary designs, instructions that make sense, encouragement for newbies, and inspiration for continuing stitchers.
Is embroidery hard to do?
Nope. It's easy, inexpensive, relaxing, rewarding and fun. With iron-on transfers, there are no charts to follow or rows to count. You simply follow the lines in stitches of your choice.
What's the best first project for me or a friend?
Get my Ultimate Embroidery Kit! It has everything you need to start (and continue) with your stitching.
What if I just get patterns and no kit?
No worries- every Sublime Stitching pattern, in any format, includes a basic how-to for starting in embroidery and stitch lesson. And you can always visit my How-To section or get my book Embroidered Effects (Chronicle Books) for more in-depth instructions to expand your skills for years to come.
PRODUCT INFO
Does the ink from the iron-on patterns wash out?
No. The ink from the transfer patterns does not wash out. Please be sure to read the instructions before use. I don’t want you to be disappointed with the results. I know you’re excited to start stitching, but test on scrap fabric first so you get the hang of it.
NOTE: Some stitchers have reported success in washing out the transfer lines by using a Tide To-Go stain pen, or by spraying with Zout, letting it sit a while, and then using Oxyclean. (I haven't tested this myself, but several customers have reported getting the lines out completely with these methods.)
Are these patterns only for embroidery?
Nope! These patterns will also transfer to wood, heavy paper, leather, canvas (to be used as a template for painting or wood burning), or glue and glittering...whatever you can think of.
Do you sell individual skeins of Sublime Floss?
Need a few extra skeins of Raspberry Whip? Used up all your Eyeliner? Just email me! I'll take care of you. I don't have individual colors listed on the website because it's too expensive to ship from the warehouse.
How do you transfer and use the iron-on designs?
Complete instructions for transferring the designs come with the patterns. Sublime Stitching transfers are multi-imprinting iron-on patterns that leave an outline on fabric for you to stitch. You can expect approximately 3-8 imprints (or more) from each design depending on how hot your iron is and how long and hard you press with the iron. The patterns are designed to inspire different combinations so you can mix and match to make your own unique compositions!
Do you have color guides?
Yes. There are two versions of color examples in every downloadable, PDF version of the patterns. There is also a printed color example included in the BIG Sheet transfer packs. The single-pack embroidery transfers do not come with a color example, but one is included with the PDF, which comes automatically with the iron-on pattern.
Why don't the color guides also come in the standard size iron-on transfer patterns?
It would be too expensive for me to include two full-color sheets with the smaller iron-on transfers. The price of the patterns would have to be raised significantly, and who wants that?
Do the patterns explain where and what stitches to use on the design?
The choice is yours! These are design that you outline or fill in with stitches -it's up to you which stitch you prefer to use.
For beginners, I recommend learning these three, basic outlining stitches: split stitch, back stitch and stem stitch. How to work these stitches, examples of what they look like, and when you might choose to use them can be found in my How-To section. These same diagrams are also included in every PDF! To learn even more stitches, how to work them, and the type of effects they achieve check find a copy of my book, Embroidered Effects. There are endless possibilities for where and how to stitch your stitches.
What is a PDF?
This is a downloadable file of the patterns that is emailed to you immediately upon purchase that you print out yourself at home. You'll need either my Fine Tip Transfer Pen or Carbon Transfer Paper to do this. Complete instructions for each method of transferring the designs by hand are included with the PDF.
Which pattern format should I choose?
Here is a full explanation of iron-on transfers vs. PDFs!
I purchased a PDF file and now I can't find it. Will you resend it to me?
Yes, but please read PDF Troubleshooting first.
I'm looking for a pattern of...
Looking for something specific you can't find? Just ask me!
ORDERING / SHIPPING
Full Terms of Sale can be found here
When will my order ship?
Orders ship weekly every Friday through Saturday via USPS with occasional shipping breaks posted on the website, or outlined in an auto-reply when you email me. If your package seems to be taking longer than usual or you didn't receive tracking info, please let me know!
Do you ship internationally? How long does it take?
Yes, Sublime Stitching ships internationally. It is impossible for me to predict how long it will take, depending on country. Generally, your order should arrive within a week or two weeks after it has shipped. For more information regarding international shipments, please see under "International Shipments" in the Terms of Sale.
Can you combine multiple orders I've placed into one shipment and give me a lower shipping cost if I email you the order numbers and ask really nicely?
No, and not because I'm mean. I know it sounds like saving packaging and materials, and that you might even get a discount on your shipping, but it doesn't work this way. It wastes packaging instead, creates unnecessary labor, and slows up shipping for other orders. I truly appreciate your multiple orders. Keep them coming, I fill them as they come in.
RETAILERS / STORES
Do you have a store?
I don't. The only place you can buy the entire current line of Sublime Stitching goods is right here on my website. And, you can find Sublime Stitching products at these shops! Just give them a call first to see if they still have it in stock!
Do you offer wholesale?
Yes! Contact me to inquire about a wholesale account.
LICENSING
Can I sell what I make with your patterns?
With a signed licensing agreement, yes. If you would like to sell what you make with Sublime Stitching patterns you must first be approved for licensing. In order to apply and learn more about this, please read about Sublime Stitching Licensing here.
OTHER FREQUENT QUESTIONS
Maybe! You are welcome to contact me with your project-related questions. I can't guarantee I'll have the answers, but I try.
How do I get a pattern onto dark fabric?
White Carbon Transfer Paper is what you need if the fabric is not soft or spongy. If it is, use T-Shirt Stabilizer by applying it topside to your fabric and then transferring the pattern onto the stabilizer. (Instructions for doing this come inside each pack.)
How do I make my own patterns?
One of the easiest ways is with Carbon Transfer Paper or my Fine Tip Transfer Pens.
How do I make iron-on patterns like the ones I purchased from you?
Sublime Stitching iron-on transfers are created with a proprietary, industrial process that can’t be duplicated at home. However, my Fine Tip Transfer Pens will create a pattern that you can imprint more than once just like my transfers!
Do you make custom patterns?
Sorry, no. Sublime Stitching does not offer custom manufacturing or custom-ordered embroidery patterns.
Will you embroider something for me?
Sublime Stitching does not offer custom embroidery or finished embroidery.
Can I show you my project?
Of course! I love seeing what you've made with my designs!
Can I suggest a pattern idea or an artist for you to collaborate with?
Absolutely! I love to hear what you'd like to stitch and your favorite artists you'd like to see in embroidery.
If you have an online portfolio you are welcome to send the link to me, but please do not submit unsolicited materials via email.
Do you teach workshops?
Yes, I do! Be sure you're signed up for my newsletter and keep your eye on event (past and present) right here.
Where can I see more of your artwork?
Please visit jennyhartstudio.com