How to: Elevate Your Project by Adding Rope

December 14, 2025

How to Take Your Projects to the Next Level by Incorporating Rope

Ready to add stunning dimension and texture to your embroidery work? Incorporating rope into your machine embroidery projects is easier than you think—and the results are absolutely show-stopping! Whether you're outlining bold letters, creating raised borders, or adding tactile details to home décor pieces, rope gives your designs a professional, high-end finish that flat embroidery simply can't achieve. This technique transforms ordinary projects into conversation pieces. Don't let intimidation hold you back—with a bit of practice, and your trusty embroidery and sewing machines, you'll be creating dimensional masterpieces that showcase your creativity and skill. You'll wonder why you didn't try this sooner. Let's elevate your embroidery game together!

Materials Needed:

• Embroidery design (We used ASH3763 Pearls of Gold)
• Sewing machine with zigzag stitch
• All-purpose thread (match to fabric strips)
• Approx. 90" of 1/4" cotton rope (clothesline) for 2-3 rings
• Scissors or rotary cutter
• Fabric strips 2" wide x approx. 6 yards long (we used red and green)

Starting the Rope: Fold the fabric strip around the tip of the rope to create a neat starting point.

Securing with Zigzag Stitch: On your sewing machine, use a zigzag stitch to secure the fabric to the rope. Notice how one side of the fabric strip is folded to create a non-fraying seam.

First Round: Align the rope with the edge of your embroidery design. As you wrap the fabric strip around the rope, secure it with a zigzag stitch as you go.

Adding More Rounds: Continue wrapping and stitching additional laps around your design. Each lap makes your project larger!

Changing Colors: Switch to a different fabric strip to add visual interest. This is a perfect way to use leftover fabric pieces and create unique projects.

Finishing the Edge: When you're happy with the size, cut the rope and tuck the end underneath the project. Secure the tucked end with a zigzag stitch.

Complete: Your elevated rope embroidery project is complete!

We used ASH3763 Pearls of Gold Enjoy creating beautiful projects! 

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