The art of embroidery, once done exclusively by hand, is now enjoyed by machine sewers, thanks to the availability of patterns for embroidery sewing machines. Both methods produce professional-looking results, although many people still like to create their embroidered works by hand. However, machine embroidery is less time-consuming and offers other options, including the ability to store and create embroidery patterns designs digitally.

Hand-sewn embroidery designs are offered as patterns and appliques to be sewn onto fabric. Patterns are transferred to the fabric with a hot iron and can usually be re-used a few times before the ink wears off. The design is then stitched onto the fabric from the pattern. The pattern can also be used to try out the design before actually doing the detail work.

Many embroidery designs are utilized with other sewing techniques, such as crewel work, needlepoint and fabric painting. Good patterns come with instructions, a photo example of the finished product and specifics about any necessary software. Since embroidery machines differ from each other in the ways that they are programmed, you may have to purchase conversion software in order to use certain machine embroidery patterns designs, or to be able to store them in the embroidery machine's computer.

Embroidery patterns offer thousands of possibilities for decorating your home objects, linens and clothing. Whether you prefer to embroider by hand or machine, there is virtually no limit to what you can achieve with the use of good embroidery designs. They are available along with related necessities such as machine hardware and software, needles and fabric.