Learn to Embroider With These Sewing Resources

Learn to Embroider With These Sewing Resources Learn Embroidery As a Beginner: Where Does It Come From And How To Get Started ChaptersA Brief History of EmbroideringBasic Materials For Beginner ProjectsBeginner Stitches and Embroidery TechniquesLearn to Embroider TutorialsEmbroidery Patterns for Your First ProjectsWhat sewing enthusiast hasn’t stood in awe in front of a 13th-century embroidered cope or richly-decorated Chinese court dress? Who hasn’t stared at the elaborate designs of 18th-century coats and admired the needlework? Not everyone who learns how to sew is interested in learning to embroider. Some are daunted by the variety of stitches while others prefer to keep their sewing simple. But if you are one of those who have always felt drawn to the world of painting in coloured thread, but don’t know where to start - this blog is for you. In Europe, the earliest pieces use stem stitch, chain stitch and split stitch. In Late Antiquity, the roundels and bands of decoration found on Coptic robes and vestments were sometimes embroidered using those techniques; remains of Dark Age embroideries show that couched goldwork was already used to make borders (such as on the outer garment of Merovingian queen Arnegunde, 6th century AD) and panels in a technique that mature into the rich Opus Anglicanum of the Middle Ages (the Maaseik embroideries, 10th century). Several techniques were used to make the amazing medieval wall hangings that have mostly survived from monasteries. The most famous of them all, the Bayeux tapestry, was made in a laid-and-couch method called Bayeux stitch or refilsaum, a technique otherwise common only in Scandinavia. Another couched stitch called Klosterstitch was popular in Northern Germany, while German brick stitch was used on tapestries, pillows, bags and pouches all over Europe. The most elaborate and beautiful techniques were:  Opus Teutonicum, a whitework and openwork technique used to make elaborate altar cloths for the period of Lent;or nué, a technique that uses the couching stitches over the gold thread to make designs, andOpus Anglicanum, a go ldwork technique that made England famous throughout Europe.Starting the Renaissance, more pieces have survived using a variety of different stitches for surface work. Blackwork was very popular in the Elizabethan period, whereas the 18th-century saw the rise of ribbon embroidery in France, a technique that soon spread to other countries along with French fashion. Tapestry or carpet-work became very popular in the 19th century, when cross-stitch slowly gained the popularity it knows today.Basic Materials For Beginner ProjectsEmbroidery needles, a hoop and embroidery cotton are some basic supplies to get started with. Photo credit: pinprick on Visual huntYou are learning how to sew and already have a stash of embroidery supplies - you’re ready to start embroidering, right? Not exactly. While if all you want to do is add little doodle flowers to a bag every few months, your normal sewing needle will do fine (though you will have a job threading it with embroidery floss), if you want to practice embroidery with anything like regularity you will have to invest in some embroidery tools. Fortunately, they are not very expensive.The right embroidery needlesTo start with, you should probably buy one or two chenille needles if you are working normal cloth; tapestry needles if you are working evenweave or thick fabric with a loose weave. Unless you invest in enough needles to have one for every colour you want to use on your beginner embroidery project, the large eye of chenille needles will save you a lot sweat and tears when threading, and is kinder on your embroidery floss if you are using it thick. Once you have mastered the basics you might want to try out crewel needles for finer work.Other embroidery suppliesAdditionally you will need:Embroidery scissors to snip as close to your work as possible. They are pretty and not too pricey and I use them to snip my plain sewing threads, too.An embroidery hoop or roller frame. You can use the tambour frame or embroidery hoop for most techniques such as cross-stitch or doodle stitching, but a roller frame is a must for silk stitching, goldwork and most counted stitch techniques with dense stitching.A needle roll or embroidery box to store your needles, scissors and extra thread you might need later on.Thread and fabricWhile you can embroider with almost any thread or wool (beginners should stay away from normal sewing thread, but you are more advanced you can used it for miniature projects such as dollhouse upholstery), embroidery floss was invented for a reason. Don’t go cheap - Anchor and DCM aren’t that expensive and embroidering with them is a dream.You can stitch onto any fabric, but a special evenweave embroidery fabric is perfect for beginner projects, as you know your stitches will be even. If you are doing cross-stitch, Aida fabric is a good choice.cross-stitch, petit point, bargello and Holbein. Of course, there are many more: buttonhole stitch, long-arm cross-stitch, Cretan stitch, sh eaf stitch…Embroider cushions and pillowcases with a variety of lovely embroidery stitches. Photo credit: The Stitch Up on Visual huntEmbroidery styles and techniquesFrom several simple stitches, each culture and region has elaborated very distinct embroidery styles, each with their own stunning visuals. From Hungarian redwork curtains to Japanese Shashiko embellishments for your patched trousers, there are hundreds of different techniques to discover and explore.Learn to Embroider TutorialsHesitant to hare off on your own? Need advice and tips for beginner embroiderers?Learn to embroider on your own“Embroidery for absolute Beginners” by Susie Johns starts with the basics of how to put your work in the hoop and transfer patterns and ends with taking care of your newly-embroidered totes and pillows. If you are looking for a wealth of different stitches, try out Lucinda Ganderton’s “Embroidery Stitches Step by Step”. If you are looking to learn a specific style of embroide ry, look to the Royal School of Needlework’s “Essential Stitch Guides” and “A-Z of…” titles.If you prefer to learn embroidery online (and for free), The Spruce and Needle ‘n Thread have easy-to-follow instructions on basic (and exotic) stitches and forays into international and historical embroidery styles.Embroidery classes and online lessonsEmbroidery lessons can be one-on-one or a class with a whole group of embroidery enthusiasts. Photo credit: City of Boston Archives on Visualhunt.comIf you want to devote three to five years to becoming a professional embroiderer, The Royal School of Needlework and the Manchester School of Art offer programs in embroidery and embroidery design. For beginner embroidery classes, you can try the Victoria and Albert Museum or the London Embroidery School.Don’t hesitate to go to your brick-and-mortar haberdashery to see if they offer beginner embroidery classes or sewing classes. Many do, or if they don’t they might have leaflets a dvertising an embroidery course near you.But if you can’t make it to sewing classes London or the other community centres offering embroidery courses, why not try to learn to embroider online? The Embroiderer’s Guild has a series of embroidery classes you can take; or if you are interested in historical embroidery, Thistle Threads offers online courses. Or why not try out a private tutor? Here at Superprof, you can choose your own private tutor for at-home or online needlework courses, including embroidery.Embroidery Patterns for Your First ProjectsYour local haberdasher’s can probably offer you a series of beginner embroidery kits to get you started on your first cross-stitch project. Commercial kits tend to focus on cross-stitch and needlepoint, but you can find some blackwork, redwork and crewelwork kits, too, if you know where to look.Embroidery kits are a good way to see if you like the hobby and want to keep up with it. Photo credit: merwing?little dear on Visual HuntThe Internet, of course, is filled with free embroidery patterns and charts. Just Google what you are looking for and you are sure to find something. But to get you started, we recommend you stop by The Spruce  or Needle ‘n Thread and look at their free downloadable patterns - you’re sure to find something there!

Shark Tank Formula for Start Up Success - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / Shark Tank Formula for Start Up Success - Introvert Whisperer Shark Tank Formula for Start Up Success ABC’s Shark Tank has entertained millions of Americans since 2009, however, this program is not only entertaining, it’s also informative. Regardless of whether you consider yourself an entrepreneur or not, you can glean valuable career advice from this primetime show. Here are some of the most useful career tips viewers have learned from the panel of sharks and hopeful entrepreneurs: It’s ok to say “no.” Every entrepreneur walks into the tank hoping to get a deal, but some have turned down deals that they didn’t think were a good fit. The lesson here? It’s important to say “no” when something doesn’t feel right. If you have too much on your plate at work, speak up and don’t take on more assignments. If you are offered an unfair salary as part of a job offer, say no and ask for what you deserve. It can be difficult for introverts to voice their opinions, but it’s absolutely necessary to get ahead in your career.   Don’t let the pressure get to you. Being in front of the sharks can be intense, and many entrepreneurs end up crumbling under the pressure. When this happens, things tend to spiral out of control fairly quickly, and the entrepreneur rarely walks away with a deal. This should show you the importance of staying calm and levelheaded under pressure. If you feel overwhelmed at work, stop for a moment to take a few deep breaths to calm yourself down. Be prepared. Entrepreneurs who enter the tank must know the ins and outs of their businesses in order to impress the sharks and secure a deal. How does this translate to your career? You should always be prepared for whatever lies ahead. If you are pitching to a client or meeting with your supervisor about a new project, be prepared. Spend time prior to the meeting thinking of what questions you may be asked and how you should answer them. Practice what you are going to say, especially if you’re nervous about speaking in front of others. Preparation takes time, but it pays off in the end. For more information on lessons you can learn from Shark Tank, take a look at this helpful infographic:

8 Steps to Determine the Work That is Truly Meant For You - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 8 Steps to Determine the Work That is Truly Meant For You - Introvert Whisperer 8 Steps to Determine the Work That is Truly Meant For You Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer

What is it Like to Attend Siena College

What is it Like to Attend Siena College The tutors behind Varsity Tutors are not just here to teachtheyre sharing their college experiences as well. April is a senior at Siena College studying biology. Currently located in Albany, she specializes in science tutoring, math tutoring, English tutoring, and several other subjects. Check out what she had to say about her experience at Siena College: Describe the campus setting and transportation options. April: The campus is fairly small and feels like a small town. It is a very close-knit community and you often see professors or other students you know. Public safety makes rounds and there are a few blue light stations to call public safety from if you feel unsafe, and they will come meet you there. There are shuttles to the mall every weekend as well as cars you can rent. How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants at Siena College? April: Our classes are small, usually capped at 30 students, and our labs are even smaller, usually no more than 15 students. This is really nice because the students and professors build a relationship and the professor knows their students and is invested in their success. Professors and advisers are normally pretty available, but it can depend on the professor. Many answer emails within a day, if not a few hours. Both are often pretty flexible when it comes to meeting with students. Teaching assistants hold office hours as well; when I helped with a class, I also answered emails and met with students when they were available outside of class. How would you describe the dorm liferooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? April: I live off-campus, but it seems like the dorms are usually fairly peaceful. There are RAs and RDs to handle any problems. There are a few places to eat, though most people complain about the food at the main dining hall. There is a focus of locally grown, healthy food. There are plenty of opportunities to get together with other students, whether its service-related, recreational, or a fundraiser. The events are advertised by fliers as well as a daily email digest. Which majors/programs are best represented and supported at Siena College? April: My school is known as a liberal arts college, but has been trying to become more widely known as a good school for science majors as well. Some people say that this is why the science curriculum is so rigorous. Im majoring in biology and I have always done well. I have been very satisfied with the courses Ive taken, except for organic chemistry, which was needlessly difficult. Still, labs and hands-on experience, as well as research opportunities, are emphasized as an essential part of learning. How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? April: As a commuter, it was a little more difficult for me to make friends because I wasnt on campus as much and didnt take part in all of the activities. I am also a shy person. However, I did make connections in my classes, and even met one of my best friends (who also happens to be a commuter). There are many opportunities to meet people, though, and theres even a group that plans events specifically for commuters. How helpful is the Career Centerand other student support services? April: The career center is always sending out emails with job and internship opportunities. They also offer resume critique services and mock interviews. We also have an office devoted to academic support, called the Nexus of Success. The counseling center is also very helpful for students experiencing many different challenges. How are the various study areas such aslibraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? April: The library is very comfy (lots of couches) and pretty quiet. There are also plenty of computers. In nearly every building, there are a few lounges and computer labs. My favorite lounge, the second home of many science majors, is in our lab building and has two glass walls and many different plants. Over-crowding is rarely a problem and we respect each others space and belongings. Describe the surrounding town at Siena College. April: Immediately surrounding the campus is a suburban area (and two cemeteries). Just five minutes away there are some small plazas with restaurants and supermarkets. Farther down, you have larger shopping centers with a variety of stores. The buses shuttle students to a mall about fifteen minutes away. Students go out often with friends, but there is also always a lot going on on campus. How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes? April: Our student body is just over 3,000 students. I love the small class sizes; its a big factor in why I chose my school. It lets me get to know my classmates and my professors, and allows me to feel more comfortable asking questions or going for help. Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one youregretthe most. April: This past summer, I did full-time research with my favorite professor and four other students. It was a really great experience and even made me decide to pursue grad school over med school. I learned and accomplished a lot, made new friends, and got to know this professor even better. Check out Aprils tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

Miller Analogies Test (MAT) Review Series Grammar Analogies

Miller Analogies Test (MAT) Review Series Grammar Analogies GRE/MAT Graduate School Blog In this continuation of ourMAT review video series, we approach working through a standard MAT style analogy that tests your grammar mastery. Grammar may be something you wanted to avoid by taking the MAT instead of the ACT, SAT, or GMAT. But the way that the MAT tests grammar is based on the relationships between punctuation marks and what they actually indicate from a definition standpoint, rather than sentence completion as seen on the GMAT. Key pointers from this video: 1. When it comes to the analogy, identify where the blank is and therefore where the pivot lies.In the example given: A is blank, so D is the pivot term, as it's the only of the given terms that can’t relate to any of the answer choices, so it has to relate to one of the terms provided. 2. Look at the pivot term and see which given term it has a relationship with. 3. If none of the choices create an identical relationship, you may need to take and step back and revisit if you chose the proper terms. 4. Be sure to properly define the terms in order to eliminate wrong answers that don't fit the relationship. 5. When dealing with grammar on the MAT always be literal. This video was produced by MyGuru'sDirector of Online Instruction and expert online MAT tutor Stefan Maisnier. Visit our YouTube channel for more MAT analogy videos.

English Conversation Classes with TED Brene Brown on Vulnerablility

English Conversation Classes with TED Brene Brown on Vulnerablility So far, this is my favorite of the TED talks I have watched. I suppose it may be because my wife and I are getting ready to have our first child, and Ive been wondering to myself, What can I do to make myself a better person for this child? In this talk, Brene Brown talks about a difficult point in her research into human shame and vulnerability that gave her a much deeper understanding of herself, others, and a lot of the problems the world faces right now. Why should you listen to Brene?According to TED:Brene BrownBrene Brown is a research professor at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. She has spent the past ten years studying vulnerability, courage, authenticity, and shame. She spent the first five years of her decade-long study focusing on shame and empathy, and is now using that work to explore a concept that she calls Wholeheartedness. She poses the questions:How do we learn to embrace our vulnerabilities and imperfections so that we can engage in our l ives from a place of authenticity and worthiness? How do we cultivate the courage, compassion, and connection that we need to recognize that we are enough â€" that we are worthy of love, belonging, and joy?Why didnt the event planner want to call Brene a researcher?What did she decide to call Brene instead?What did Brenes professor tell her?Why was this important?Why does Brene say we are here?What, according to Brene, unravels connection? What causes this condition?What separated the people with a strong sense of love and belonging from the others.What did the people with a strong sense of belonging have in common?Why was this upsetting to her as a researcher?What happened to her next?What does Brene say we do with vulerability?What is the problem with this?How else do we handle vulnerability?What is blame?What is the job of a parent?What is her other way of handling vulnerability?In the comments on TEDs page for this video, someone pointed out that what Brene concluded was basical ly the idea of Tao:To be whole, let yourself break.To be straight, let yourself bend.To be full, let yourself be empty.To be new, let yourself wear out.To have everything, give everything up.The Tao-Master clings to the Tao and becomes a model for all.He doesnt put on a show, but his light shines forth.He doesnt justify himself, but he is known for his integrity.He doesnt boast, but he is recognized as accomplished.He doesnt contend with others,and thus no one contends with him.The old saying, Surrender and conquer, is not an empty slogan.Surrender to the Tao and find yourself completed.Surrender to English. Take a conversation class with us!

Happy Holidays and a Successful School Year 2015!

Happy Holidays and a Successful School Year 2015! Joy Joy Joy! TutorZ delivers the warmest wishes for a wonderful Holiday Season and a successful start of the 2015 school year to all of our tutors, teachers, instructors, parents and students. We are sincerely delighted to have you as our customers. We are wishing you a holiday season filled with peace and joy. May bright ideas and new insights greet you each day of the new year. We also hope that your beautiful wishes for 2015 come true and you achieve your educational targets. If we can help you to reach your goal come back in 2015 to get more tutoring at TutorZ. Happy holidays and lots of reasons to smile!