Mini Summer Designs
Meet our Mini Summer Collection — a sweet set of tiny designs made for endless creativity. Each design stitches out at approximately 1.5" x 1.5", making them a quick and satisfying stitch whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro.
These little gems were designed with patches in mind. Simply stitch them onto twill, trim closely around the edges, then finish with a heat-activated backing or a touch of glue — and just like that, you have the cutest custom patches ready to go. Dress up a makeup bag, add some personality to a tote, jazz up a pair of shoes, or stick them anywhere that needs a little summer sparkle.
Of course, they work beautifully stitched directly onto your favorite items too — the possibilities are as endless as a summer day.
Small in size, big on charm. The perfect summer addition to any project.
use code SUMMER when you check out
The Anita Discount Card
Join for $99. Get a $99 Gift Card.
Sign up for the Discount Membership today and I'll send you a $99 gift card — emailed to you about 3 days after your purchase.
You can look at it two ways:
- A free $99 gift card just for joining, or
- A free membership when you spend $99 on product
$1,500+ in free designs — just for being a member
As a Discount Card member, you also get access to our weekly free downloads. In the last 12 months alone, I've given cardholders over $1,500 in free designs, just for being members.
If you've been thinking about joining, this is the moment. You get the savings, the free designs, the weekly downloads, access to the new Members section — and with the gift card, your membership essentially pays for itself.
I'd love to welcome you.
Romance - Made your way 2
Part Two of The Romance Collection expands our unapologetic celebration of all things beautiful
Step back into a world where vintage elegance effortlessly marries a fun, modern take on femininity. An aesthetic dream overflowing with soft pinks, intricate florals, delicate lace, playful ruffles, and bows.
For this second release, we’ve added a touch of Parisian magic and whimsical delight. Fall in love all over again with an enchanting new lineup featuring graceful butterflies, adorable mini charms, the iconic Eiffel Tower, and so much more. Crafted for the true romantic at heart, these upscale, embroidered bag charms are miniature works of art designed to make you feel beautiful, confident, and completely unique.
Unlike standard designs that are resized after the fact, each variation in this collection was intentionally created from the ground up to ensure perfect results for your specific project.
You choose the format:
- Standard Embroidery: Multiple sizes for traditional projects.
- Appliqué: Thoughtfully digitized for quilts and garments.
- Two-Sided Charms: Specially digitized for our signature 3D look.
Made Your Way is about creative freedom—giving you professional-grade options without putting your designs in a box.
Available for the first time
You asked, and we listened! By popular request from our domestic and international customers, we’ve transformed our largest collections into fully digital versions. When you download these files, you get the exact same beautiful designs, plus a handy PDF copy of the accompanying book. Even better? Going digital means no shipping charges and a 20% lower price. (If you still love the feeling of a physical book in your hands, don't worry—you can still find those combos in our Books section!)
Visit Wild Thread Studio
"Visit our sister site, Wild Threads, to see our finished embroidered charms in action. These are the exact designs you can create yourself! I’m sharing this to show you the high-end, professional results possible with your embroidery machine. Most of the charms featured there are available as designs on our Charmed page—if you don’t see one yet, it’s likely a future release."
The big warehouse clear-out
Huge Savings on Books. Binders and More! Get them before they are gone! Discount Card holders save even more
Type: Signature Series
Signature Series V: Thread Découpage
Type: Signature Series
Signature Series Volume III: Flower Garden
Type: Signature Series
Signature Series Volume II: Butterflies
Type: Signature Series
Signature Series IV: Fantasy Tree
Type: Education
Anita's University 301: Next Level Embroidery
Type: Education
Anita's University 102: Embroidery Made Easy II
Type: Education
The Greatest Hits Christmas Edition
Type:
Green Cactus Deluxe Embroidery Kit
Type:
Sunset Heart- Deluxe Embroidery Kit
Type:
Razzle Dazzle Rose Heart- Deluxe Embroidery Kit
Type:
Hot Pink Heart- Deluxe Embroidery Kit
News and Notes
Create Free Standing Butterflies
TUTORIALS · MACHINE EMBROIDERY Free-Standing Butterflies A complete guide to stitching, trimming, and installing dimensional embroidered butterflies — from supplies to final display. SKILL LEVEL Intermediate TECHNIQUE Freestanding Embroidery BY Stephen Wilson A selection of species from Signature Series Vol. 2: Butterflies — each stitched in rich, realistic detail About this collection Stephen Wilson has been creating embroidered butterflies for over 20 years — from quilts and garments to freestanding art pieces. Butterflies have become a signature element of his work because of what they represent: transformation, metamorphosis, and beauty in nature. Signature Series Vol. 2: Butterflies features 100 different species, each digitized in rich realistic detail, and available in three sizes — 2.5", 3.0", and 3.5". The range in sizing opens up new possibilities for everything from jewelry and accessories to large-scale wall installations. This guide covers everything you need to stitch, trim, and display these dimensional butterflies. Supplies & Materials See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product See Product Threads, Stahls' Poly-TWILL™ fabric, curved-tip scissors, and wash-away stabilizer — everything you need SUPPLY NOTES Threads Use real-life colors or tonal options. Wilson's originals draw on Robison-Anton, Madeira, and Floriani — design steps call out generic color names so you can use any brand. Stabilizer Double up two layers of wash-away stabilizer for durability with a soft, flexible finish. Base fabric Stahls' Poly-TWILL™ — a tightly woven 100% polyester with a diagonal weave that holds up to high stitch counts. Scissors Sharp curved-tip embroidery scissors (such as Gingher double-curved) for close, clean trimming. Finishing tool A hot knife or candle-length lighter to singe wing edges for a clean, uniform appearance. Thread selection tip With 100 species to choose from, keep reference images nearby — printed or on screen. Design steps use generic color names ("deep orange," "midnight blue") so you can match any thread brand to the real butterfly's palette. Stitching the Butterflies Each butterfly design begins with a placement stitch that outlines the shape. From there, place your Poly-TWILL™ fabric over the stitched area — it acts as the hidden base that supports the entire embroidery. Then run the design through to completion, following the thread color changes indicated in your machine steps. Due to the high stitch density of each species, run these designs on a double layer of wash-away stabilizer to give enough durability without sacrificing the soft, flexible finish of the final piece. Trimming & finishing Once stitched, remove the piece from the hoop and tear it away from the stabilizer. Using curved-tip scissors, trim as closely as possible to the stitched outline without cutting into the stitch lines. Any stray threads or exposed Poly-TWILL™ remaining after trimming can be singed away with a hot knife or a lighter. Work slowly — a light pass melts stray fibers instantly and leaves a clean, professional edge. Pro tip Work from the wingtips inward when trimming. The curved scissor blades follow the wing contour naturally, giving you a smoother cut with less effort. Display Inspiration Blue Morpho butterflies framing a room concept — a preview of the kind of installation these designs make possible Installing Your Butterflies Once trimmed and finished, the butterflies are ready to go anywhere. The collection tutorial includes dozens of display options — below are a few of the most popular applications. Wall display — butterflies pinned in a flowing arrangement Stephen Wilson installing butterflies on a gallery wall For wall display, a simple pin or adhesive dot is all you need. The dimensional finish of the freestanding embroidery creates natural shadow and depth against any surface — the butterflies appear to be in flight. Wearable & accessories The smaller 2.5" size works beautifully as a brooch, bag charm, or lapel pin. Back a finished butterfly with a pin finding using a drop of fabric glue or a few hand stitches for an instant accessory. The diversity of sizing across 2.5", 3.0", and 3.5" means one species can serve multiple purposes — a smaller version as jewelry, a larger as a wall piece, framed art, or a statement on a garment. Other popular applications: Wall installations · Framed shadowbox art · Picture frames · Jewelry & brooches · Garments & accessories · Gift toppers · Seasonal décor Signature Series Vol. 2: Butterflies Available now for immediate download at anitagoodesign.com Free-Standing Butterflies Guide | anitagoodesign.com Stephen Wilson has spent over 20 years perfecting the art of freestanding embroidered butterflies, and in this guide he shares exactly how it's done. Using just three key materials — wash-away stabilizer, Poly-TWILL™ fabric, and your thread palette — you can stitch any of 100 realistic butterfly species, trim them cleanly with curved scissors, and singe the edges to a polished finish. Once complete, these dimensional butterflies can go anywhere: walls, frames, jewelry, garments, or gift toppers. This collection comes in three sizes (2.5", 3.0", and 3.5"), making them endlessly versatile for both small accessories and large statement installations. Stephen Wilson Stephen Wilson is the founder of Anita Goodesign, Stephen Wilson Studio, and Wild Threads — three brands built over more than 30 years at the forefront of machine embroidery. Based in Charlotte, NC, Stephen began his career in graphic design before discovering embroidery in 1994, going on to build Anita Goodesign into one of the world's leading embroidery design companies. A master digitizer, educator, and artist, he has taught thousands of students across the country and has been a fixture at B-Sew Inn in Tulsa, Oklahoma for over 24 years. His fine art practice — Stephen Wilson Studio — brings together luxury fabric, hand embroidery, and original digitizing to create work at the intersection of craft and contemporary culture. VIEW ALL OF OUR BUTTERFLY COLLECTIONS
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Creating Double Sided Embroidered Charms
Learn how to make double-sided charms with this simplified guide. We cover the essential steps and techniques found in the CHARMED book to help you create professional-looking embroidered accessories.
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Machine Embroidery Tools
a comprehensive guide machine embroidery tools Machine embroidery is a rewarding and intricate craft requiring specific tools to ensure success. Each tool serves a unique purpose, contributing to the precision and beauty of the final product. I have compiled an extensive list of essential tools for machine embroidery, along with their detailed descriptions, variations, and applications. This section will include: Embroidery Machine Stabilizers Embroidery Thread Needles Hoops Scissors Thread Stand Embroidery Software Bobbins Pre-Wash Spray Washing Machine Lint Brush Iron & Ironing Board Emb. Design Catalog Measuring Tools Cutting Mat Rotary Cutter Pinking Shears Emb. Hooping System Magnetic Hoops Seam Ripper Lint Roller Organizational Tools Ruler with Cutting Edge EMBROIDERY MACHINES DESCRIPTION The centerpiece of any embroidery setup, a machine embroidery is often computer operated and can feature built-in designs, fonts, and the ability to import custom patterns through USB or Wi-Fi connectivity. VARIATIONS Machines range from basic single-needle models suitable for beginners to multi-needle commercial machines designed for high production. Specialty machines with embroidery capabilities may also include sewing functions. USES Allows for intricate stitching, designs, and patterns on fabric, making it essential for quilting, garment customization, and decorative textiles. STABILIZERS DESCRIPTION Stabilizers are materials used to support the fabric during the embroidery process, preventing distortion, puckering, or shifting. TYPES Tear-Away Stabilizers: >> Easily torn away after stitching, ideal for stable fabrics. Cut-Away Stabilizers: >> Remain with the fabric to provide ongoing support, perfect for stretchy or delicate materials. Wash-Away Stabilizers: >> Dissolve in water, leaving no residue, suitable for lace or sheer fabrics. Fusible Stabilizers: >> Ironed onto the fabric to add support while adhering it in place. USES Each type is chosen based on fabric properties and project requirements to achieve clean, professional results. THREAD STAND DESCRIPTION A device that organizes and stabilizes multiple spools of thread, often with adjustable height for optimal feeding. VARIATIONS Single Thread Stand: >> Holds one spool at a time. Multi-Spool Stand: >> Can accommodate several spools simultaneously. USES A thread stand keeps your thread organized and untangled, allowing for easy access during stitching. It prevents thread breakage and ensures smooth feeding of thread through the machine. EMBROIDERY SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION Computer programs designed for creating, editing, and digitizing embroidery designs. VARIATIONS Digitizing Software: >> Converts artwork into stitch files for embroidery machines. Editing Software: >> Allows users to modify existing designs, changing colors, sizes, or stitch types. Management Software: >> Helps organize and catalog designs for easy access. USES Provides the ability to personalize projects by creating custom designs or modifying existing designs to fit your specific needs. BOBBINS DESCRIPTION Small spools that hold the thread used for the lower stitching in embroidery. VARIATIONS Class 15 Bobbins: >> Commonly used in many home sewing machines. Metal vs. Plastic Bobbins: >> Metal bobbins tend to be sturdier, while plastic bobbins are lighter and easier to see when winding. USES Ensures a clean and secure stitch on the underside of the embroidery, helping to maintain the balance of the fabric and preventing puckering. PRE-WASH SPRAY DESCRIPTION A temporary adhesive spray used to hold fabric layers in place during embroidery. VARIATIONS Different brands and formulas that vary in stickiness and ease of removal. USES Prevents fabric layers from shifting while embroidering intricate designs, ensuring accuracy and reducing the risk of misalignment. WASHING MACHINE DESCRIPTION Used to clean finished embroidery projects and remove any stabilizer residue. USES Rinses away water-soluble stabilizers and ensures that items look professional and clean after production. LINT BRUSH DESCRIPTION A small brush designed specifically to remove lint and dust from the embroidery machine. USES Regular cleaning with a lint brush helps maintain machine performance, preventing thread breaks and skipped stitches caused by accumulated debris. IRON & IRONING BOARD DESCRIPTION Essential for preparing and finishing fabric, ensuring it is smooth and wrinkle-free. USES Allows for pressing fabric before hooping to remove creases, and can be used after stitching to flatten seams and improve the overall appearance of the project. PINKING SHEARS DESCRIPTION Scissors with a zigzag blade designed to create a decorative edge and prevent fabric fraying. USES Ideal for finishing raw edges of fabric before embroidery, giving a professional look while minimizing future fraying. CUTTING MAT DESCRIPTION A self-healing mat that protects your cutting surfaces and provides a grid for easy measuring. USES Essential for rotary cutting or cutting multiple layers of fabric cleanly and accurately, while protecting your work surface underneath. ROTARY CUTTER DESCRIPTION A tool similar to a pizza cutter, designed for cutting fabric with precision. USES Great for cutting multiple layers of fabric or for making detailed shapes, providing clean, straight cuts which are essential for quilting and embroidery prep. EMBROIDERY DESIGN CATALOG DESCRIPTION A collection or database of embroidery designs and patterns. VARIATIONS Can be kept in physical form (binders with printed designs) or digital form (software or cloud storage). USES Helps keep designs organized and allows for easy retrieval when starting new projects; saves time when searching for specific designs. MEASURING TOOLS DESCRIPTION Rulers or measuring tapes used for precise fabric cutting and stitching placement. VARIATIONS Fabric Ruler: >> Often clear, allowing you to see through for better accuracy. Measuring Tape: >> Flexible measuring tool for curvy patterns. USES Ensures accurate cutting and placement, critical for aligning designs properly on fabric. EMBROIDERY HOOPING SYSTEM DESCRIPTION A specialized tool designed to assist in accurately hooping fabric and stabilizer, ensuring perfect alignment every time. VARIATIONS Includes vertical and horizontal hooping systems that might offer adjustable frames for increased flexibility with larger designs. USES Facilitates precise and consistent hooping, reducing the risk of misalignment and increasing efficiency when preparing multiple projects. MAGNETIC HOOP DESCRIPTION An alternative to traditional hoops, magnetic hoops use magnets to hold the fabric in place. VARIATIONS Available in various sizes and designs, some magnetic hoops come with markings for accurate placement. USES Allows for quick and easy fabric changes, making it efficient for multiple designs without having to re-hoop frequently. Ideal for continuous stitching projects. ORGANIZATIONAL TOOLS (BINS/BINDERS) DESCRIPTION Storage solutions for keeping your embroidery supplies and designs organized. USES Helps manage fabric scraps, thread spools, needles, and design files, ensuring that everything is easy to find when you need it. SEAM RIPPER DESCRIPTION A small tool with a sharp point designed for effortlessly removing stitches. USES Essential for correcting mistakes, unpicking seams, or removing unwanted stitches, allowing for quick adjustments without damaging the fabric. LINT ROLLER DESCRIPTION A sticky roller used to remove lint, dust, and fabric debris from your work area and equipment. USES Keeps your embroidery area clean and ensures no debris interferes with your stitching quality, particularly important for projects involving delicate fabrics. RULER WITH CUTTING EDGE DESCRIPTION Transparent or marked rulers that typically include a cutting guide for accuracy. USES Essential for marking accurate measurements on the fabric and ensuring precise cutting for multiple layers. Summary Having the right tools for machine embroidery can transform your creative process, making it efficient and enjoyable. Each tool plays a valuable role, whether it’s supporting the fabric, ensuring precision, or helping to organize your workspace. From the essential embroidery machine and stabilizers to the specialized needles and threads, understanding the purpose and variations of each tool is critical for achieving professional-quality results in your embroidery projects. By equipping yourself with a well-rounded toolkit and mastering the use of these tools, you will enhance your embroidery experience, boost your creativity, and ensure that your projects are not only beautiful but also structurally sound. Happy embroidering!
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