Embroidered USA Map with Cute Chevron Background

So yes, I know. I am totally last minute girl here.

But I was looking at my cute summer mantel this weekend and realized that it was not so patriotic.
As in, not at all. And the 4th of July is in a couple of days. It was just sad.

I decided to get out some needle and thread and get to stitching!

I love the cute state printables that are so popular right now, with the fun chevron backgrounds.
And my friend Kara did a super cute USA map printable like that last week.

So I created an embroidery pattern that was similar and I love how it turned out!

I know we’re cutting it close here, but this is super fast. Just some back stitching, and a few french knots!
You could totally whip one up by the time the fireworks start.

Here’s all you need to get going:

8 x 10 piece of fabric
red embroidery floss
blue embroidery floss
embroidery hoop/needle
6 x 8 piece of fusible fleece
5 x 7 frame
USA Map with Chevron Background Pattern

Start by tracing your pattern onto your fabric with a disappearing ink pen.
You’ll need to put your heart over your state – on the pattern it’s over CA but you can just move the pattern to wherever you need it!

All our stitching is Back Stitching. Here’s a quickie tut. It’s easier if you start with the chevron lines first.

Bring your needle up about 1/8″ from the beginning of your line.

That is your “A” point. Pull your thread through. Put your needle back down at “B”, bring it back up at “C”.

For the next stitch, you’ll repeat the process – up at “A”, down at “B”, up at “C”.

When you get to a point, just make your “C” point across the point. This will allow you to have nice pointed Chevrons.

Once all your lines are finished, embroider our little heart. Fill the heart with French Knots, then outline it in a back stitch.

Next up is your map! Just follow the pattern lines with back stitches in blue thread.

Press your design and remove any marking lines.
Iron your fusible fleece to the back side of the embroidery work.

Pop your embroidery in a frame and you’re all set and ready for the 4th!

What do you think?
Are you all ready for the 4th of July?
I think I’m good.
I just need a hamburger. And some potato salad.
And maybe some homemade ice cream?

Linking up awesomeness at Sunday Scoop, Today’s Creative Blog, Met Monday, Skip to my Lou, Tutorials & Tips Tuesday, Shabby Creek Cottage, and the other fabulous parties on the party page – make sure you check them out!