Embroidery is a sweet and simple way to add a bit of personality to basic household items such as fabric napkins. Make one napkin as a lovely gift to wrap up a homemade loaf of bread, or stitch up a set of six to dress up your Mother's Day brunch table.

Take a look at larger image of the embroidered flower napkin

You need:
• 6 napkins (cotton or linen)
• Embroidery floss (white, yellow and green)
• Fabric marker (optional)
• 12 cm (5-inch) embroidery hoop
• Embroidery needle and scissors

To make:
1. Wash, dry and iron napkins.

2. If desired, use fabric marker to sketch daisy in desired location on right side of each napkin.

3. Embroider daisies as follows: Use three strands white floss to make lazy daisy stitches for flower petals; three strands yellow floss to make French knots for flower centre; and three strands green floss to complete stem stitch for stems and leaves.

Take a look at a larger image of the embroidery stitches

Designer's tip:
If you'd prefer to make your own napkins, cut 1.5 m (1.6 yards) of fabric (we prefer cotton or linen) into six 41 cm (16 1/2-inch) squares. Use serger to edge each square with a rolled hem. Or, turn each raw edge under 6 mm (1/4 inch) and press; repeat to enclose raw edge. Hem with machine or by hand, using straight stitch, blind stitch or decorative edgestitch as desired.

This story was originally titled "Petal Pushers" in the May 2012 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!

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