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Welcome to my Blog. This a place to share and learn all things embroidery. Here I post inspirational stories and free lessons in the form of tutorials and guides. I also share tips, tricks and teach stitches and techniques.

You will also find free patterns and designs for you to unlock your creativity. It is a great place for any creative looking to learn or find inspiration in this art form.

To stay in the loop with Dicraft you can subscribe to my newsletter and stay in touch on Instagram and Facebook.

Blog > Share and learn with Di van Niekerk

♡ A New Needlebook and Online Consultations/Classes with Di

. . Hello Stitching Friend! I have some inspiring news regarding our best-selling needlebook series. Don't miss out on the chance to embark on a creative journey that's been carefully crafted with passion and inspiration. "A Magical Spring" is the second in our popular needlebook series. Along with all that you need, you will find detailed photos and instructions that I wrote step-by-step. These are for you to easily...

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Silk Ribbon Embroidery Hint 12 by Di van Niekerk

Did You Know?   Embroidery hoops are thin with a tightening screw, while quilting hoops are thicker with a wing nut. Both can be used for embroidery, but quilting hoops are sturdier and stay tightened longer. Keep your embroidery taut within the hoop as you stitch to ensure optimal tension. Frequently stretch the fabric layers, pulling them gently along the edges and corners until they are taut again. Secure...

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Silk Ribbon and Thread - A Beautiful Heart by Janet Tinsley

  ♡ Hello, stitching friends! Today, I have something truly special to share with you – a stunning heart design by the talented Janet Tinsley from Newcastle in Washington, USA. Janet participated in our Embroidery Heart Challenge, and her piece truly deserves first prize! Congratulations, Janet – this masterpiece is something to be incredibly proud of ♡♡♡ Janet shared, “Last summer, I came across your heart challenge and ordered one...

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Proteas by Christine Rossouw from Nylstroom (Modimolle) in South Africa

. Hi Stitching friends, today I have some beautiful embroidered Proteas to show you by the talented Christine Rossouw! . These are three Proteas in a row. Close-ups of the single pictures follow... , .  . The close-ups of each picture... Aren't they gorgeous? . . Protea Magnifica . . .Protea Comptonii . . Protea Speciosa I asked Christine to tell us more about herself and her journey into...

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HAPPY THANKSGIVING and a beautiful Nature's Bounty by Karen Fraser

  "There is a calmness to a life lived in Gratitude, a quiet joy"   Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy this special day and THANK YOU for all your support and friendship throughout the years.    I want to share this lovely piece by Karen Fraser who teaches at Piecemakers in California. It's an apt design for this special day to celebrate the harvest season... .   ....

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Gathering Ribbon to Create Interesting Flowers
Making Interesting Flowers - Gathering Silk Ribbon by Di van Niekerk
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About Stitching in a Hoop by Di van Niekerk

I always work on an embroidery frame or hoop.  Some embroiderers like to use small hoops but if you learn to stitch in a larger hoop, you can see the entire design whilst you stitch. This helps with choice of colour and texture — one needs to see the bigger picture when deciding on colour and texture, plus the larger hoop does not damage the stitches. .     Hint About Stitches All...

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A Stunning Ribbon Embroidery and Stumpwork Sampler

  Ribbon Embroidery and Stumpwork Sampler - written by Di van Niekerk . I have something to inspire you today! The talented Jane Ludlow from Kent sent me a picture of the exquisite flower sampler she made as a wedding gift (how lucky is that couple!) and I thought I would show it to you... . This sampler is from one of my books titled RES  and has over 30 elements in the...

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Beautiful silk ribbon embroidery by Catherine Nicol from Paris
I must show you something really special - a beautiful silk ribbon embroidery by the talented Catherine Nicol from Paris, France.
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Silk Ribbon Embroidery Hint 11 by Di van Niekerk

Silk Ribbon Embroidery Hints and Tips by Di van Niekerk

Where to start?

 

When starting a project, I am often asked, where do I start?

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