DIY Sweatshirt Embroidery Using Reverse Appliqué
If you’re looking for a fun way to elevate a basic sweatshirt, this reverse appliqué embroidery tutorial is perfect for you! Whether you’re new to embroidery or just looking to try something new, this technique creates a bold, unique look with just a few simple materials. It’s one of my favorite ways to mix fabric and thread into something that feels fresh, modern, and totally you.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create your own embroidered sweatshirt using the reverse appliqué method—including tips, materials, and step-by-step instructions to help you feel confident from start to finish.
What is Reverse Appliqué?
Reverse appliqué is a technique where a piece of fabric is layered underneath the main fabric (in this case, a sweatshirt), and the design is cut out and stitched in a way that reveals the fabric underneath. It’s the perfect way to add texture, color, and personality to any project.
Unlike traditional appliqué, where the design is sewn on top, reverse appliqué lets you work from behind to reveal a peek of the fabric hidden beneath. It’s fun, forgiving, and always impressive when it’s done!
Materials You’ll Need:
- A plain sweatshirt (any color you love!)
- Fabric for underneath (cotton or any non-stretch fabric works great)
- Embroidery needle
- Embroidery floss in your choice of colors
- Scissors
- Embroidery hoop (6 to 8 inches is ideal)
- Fabric marking pen or chalk
- Your embroidery pattern (hand-drawn or pre-designed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Choose Your Design
Start by selecting or sketching a design. Bold, simple shapes work best—think florals, hearts, stars, or your favorite words. Since we’ll be cutting the top layer, avoid very intricate or small details.
2. Prep Your Sweatshirt and Fabric
Turn your sweatshirt inside out. Cut a piece of your backing fabric slightly larger than your design and place it inside the sweatshirt where you want your pattern to go. Use fabric glue or fusible interfacing to lightly secure the fabric to the inside of your sweatshirt.
3. Transfer Your Design
Turn the sweatshirt right side out and place it in your embroidery hoop with the area you’ll be stitching centered. Using a fabric pen or chalk, trace your design onto the sweatshirt.
4. Start Stitching
Use a backstitch or running stitch to stitch along the lines of your design. This is the outline that will define your shape. Be sure your stitches go through both the sweatshirt and the backing fabric.
5. Cut the Top Layer
Once you’ve stitched the entire design, carefully use sharp scissors to cut away the sweatshirt fabric inside your stitched lines, revealing the fabric underneath. Be very careful not to cut your stitches or the backing fabric!
6. Add Extra Details
You can stop here if you love the look of the exposed fabric, or you can add more embroidery to the edges for a pop of color and texture. Try satin stitches, French knots, or even a border of lazy daisies to make it your own.
Tips for Success
- Keep it simple for your first try. The simpler the design, the more clean and striking it will look.
- Use contrasting colors for your sweatshirt and backing fabric to make the design pop.
- Test your fabric combination on a small scrap before you begin.
- Don’t over-tighten your hoop. Sweatshirt material can stretch easily, and you want to avoid puckering.
Styling Your Reverse Appliqué Sweatshirt
Your finished sweatshirt is going to be a statement piece! Pair it with jeans, skirts, or even joggers for a cozy, handmade look that feels totally you. It also makes a perfect gift—customize it with initials, names, or special symbols that mean something personal.
Final Thoughts
This technique has become one of my go-tos for a reason. It feels like magic watching your design come to life, and it’s such a satisfying way to create something that looks high-end without needing advanced embroidery skills.
I hope you give this DIY a try and fall in love with reverse appliqué just like I did! If you do, be sure to tag me @daisies.duke0915 on Instagram so I can see your beautiful work!
If you’re interested in purchasing any of my DIY kits, please click on the links or pictures below!
Happy stitching!
