Learn how to embroider on card with this easy houseplant design. Use an iron-on embroidery transfer to mark the pattern, make the stitching holes and add colourful back stitch to create a hand-stitched card for someone special.

This beginner-friendly card-making project uses just two strands of embroidery thread and one simple stitch. It’s a lovely way to make a birthday card, a thank-you card or a greeting for a plant-loving friend.

Step 1: Transfer the design onto your card

Cut out your chosen transfer and check its position on the front of the card. Leave space for a message if you’d like to add one later.

Place the transfer ink-side down and follow the pack instructions to iron it onto the card, using a dry iron and a heat-safe surface. Test first on spare card of the same type. Use plain, uncoated card rather than glossy, laminated or plastic-coated card.

Tip: Heat can make card curl slightly. Once it is safe to handle, place it under a clean, heavy book while it cools to help flatten it.

Step 2: Make the stitching holes

Open the card flat and place the front panel on your piercing mat or thick pad of scrap paper. Keep your fingers clear of the point and use your pin to make holes along the transferred lines, roughly 4mm apart.

Add a hole at corners and changes of direction so your stitches follow the shape neatly. On curves, adjust the spacing slightly, leaving enough card between holes to prevent tearing.

Work around the whole design before you start embroidering. The holes should go through the front panel only, leaving the back of the card untouched.

Step 3: Thread your needle

Cut a comfortable length of light green embroidery thread and separate out two of the six strands. Thread your needle with these two strands and tie a small knot at the other end.

Use a needle that passes easily through the prepared holes without making them much larger. If you need help separating the strands, see my beginner’s embroidery guide.

Step 4: Embroider the first leaf with back stitch

Start with the top leaf. Bring your needle from the inside of the card through one of the prepared holes and follow the outline with back stitch.

Step 5: Stitch the remaining leaves and plant pot

Thread your needle with two strands of dark green thread and back stitch around the remaining two leaves.

Then use two strands of red thread to outline the plant pot, working through the prepared holes in the same way.

When you finish each colour, secure the thread on the inside of the card by passing it gently under a few existing stitches, then trim the end.

Step 6: Add your message and finish the card

Once the embroidery is complete, use a white acrylic paint pen to write a name or message on the front, if you wish. Allow the ink to dry before handling.

For a neat finish inside, cover the back of the stitching with a piece of plain paper, fixed around the edges with a little glue or double-sided tape.

Your handmade embroidered card is ready to give. Try the same method with other small embroidery designs to make cards for birthdays, thank-yous and celebrations.

Embroidered card-making questions

What stitch should I use for embroidery on card?

Back stitch is a useful first stitch for embroidered cards. It creates a clear outline and works well through pre-pierced holes. This project uses two strands of thread for all the stitching.

Can I use stick and stitch patterns on card?

Stick and stitch patterns need water to dissolve after stitching, so they aren’t suitable for this card project. Use an iron-on transfer on suitable card, testing first, or mark your design onto the card another way.

Do I need an embroidery hoop for card making?

No, you don’t need a hoop. The card supports the stitches. Hold it gently and work through the prepared holes without bending it.