Discover the Art of Embroidery with That Crafty One

By ShirtSpace | Feb 08, 2023 |  Updated Nov 01, 2023

Shannon Patterson, owner and operator of That Crafty One, specializes in unique and one-of-a-kind embroidered pieces. Based in Philadelphia, PA. Shannon started embroidering as way to share her art. “I specialize in chain-stitch machine embroidery and small-batch screen printing, but I happen to love so many different forms of art that there's always a chance I add to my business offerings based on my interests,” says Shannon.

Image Source: Shannon Patterson owner of That Crafty One

A Passion For Chain-Stitch Embroidery

The art of chain-stitch embroidery has been a fascinating craft to learn for Shannon. The machine-operated craft dates back to 1865’s, when the first chain-stitch contraption was invented. The craft is essentially a mechanized version of hand embroidery, so the work is done much faster than by hand. However, it's still very much hand-operated. Shannon steers the machine with a hand crank underneath the table, so every stitch is directed and guided by them. She finds this way helps connect her to her art and to the work more than if everything was done via computer.

Image Source: Shannon Patterson owner of That Crafty One

Shannon’s Favorite Canvases

“My favorite styles to embroider are crewneck sweatshirts and denim jackets,” says Shannon. Crewnecks slide nicely under her machine, as sweatshirts with hoods can sometimes get in the way. “I’ve discovered through trial and error that I can actually embroider a very solid, detailed image on the heavyweight blend sweatshirts at ShirtSpace. My go-to brand is Gildan, but I've also had success with Comfort Colors,” says Shannon. But more recently, she has been testing embroidery on beanies! 

Image Source: Shannon Patterson owner of That Crafty One 

Advice for Starting Embroiderers

“My advice to any embroiderers starting out, make things that you love. Create things that bring you joy. If you're into it, you'll keep up with it, and your passion will show through your work. In terms of business, there will always be ups and downs, which is why staying connected to your work and loving what you do is most important. Eventually, the business will follow, and even if it doesn't, at least you made some really cool stuff that you love along the way,” says Shannon.

Check out Shannon’s website or Etsy and don’t forget to follow her on social media! You can find her at @thatcraftyone on Instagram and that_crafty_one on TikTok.

Do you have any handy tips for embroiderers? Be sure to share your best tricks in the comments!