Frequently asked questions

No question is too small. Here you'll find answers to what our embroiderers most frequently want to know — from the first stitch to finishing up.

General

About the kits

Who are your kits suitable for?

For everyone who fancies making something by hand. We have kits for absolute beginners (small patterns, few colours, clear steps) to advanced crafters (large projects with many colour transitions). Not sure where to start? Begin with the For beginners collection — you can't go wrong.

What's in a kit?

Everything you need to get started right away:

  • Aida fabric in the correct size
  • Embroidery floss, sorted by symbol for you
  • Two embroidery needles
  • Pattern with color chart
  • Dutch manual with tips

All you need is a pair of scissors — nothing else.

I've never embroidered before. Will I manage?

Absolutely. Our beginner kits are specifically designed for this: small patterns, few different colours, and an instruction booklet that guides you step-by-step—from the first cross-stitch to finishing. If you can hold a needle, you can do this.

How long does a kit take me?

That depends on the size and your pace. A small beginner pattern takes 4–8 hours. A medium-sized kit takes approximately 15–25 hours. A large, detailed piece can take 40 hours or more. Embroidery is not a race — an hour on the couch in the evening and you'll notice the work growing.

What material do you use?

We use Zweigart Aida fabric (14 count, the standard for cross stitch) and high-quality embroidery floss — used worldwide in cross stitch, with a color palette of hundreds of shades. Our patterns are custom-designed in our own studio.

Own photo

Regarding the custom photo package

How does the custom photo embroidery kit work?

You upload a photo via the product page, choose a size, and we turn it into a pattern — manually adjusted for good contrasts. Within 5–7 business days, you'll receive a complete kit at home: your pattern, the correct yarn colors, and all materials.

Which photos work best?

Photos with clear contrasts and not too many small details. A portrait of your dog with a clean background works better than a group photo in bright sunlight. Are you unsure? Send it via contact and we'll take a look with you — free of charge and without obligation.

Can I upload a photo with multiple people?

Yes, but keep in mind that the more details a photo contains, the larger the pattern needs to be to make everything recognizable. For group photos, we recommend at least the 30×40 cm size.

Can I return a self-photo kit?

Custom photo kits are tailor-made and therefore cannot be returned. However, we always check whether the photo is suitable before production — if we expect the result to be disappointing, we will email you first.

Ordering & shipping

Order, delivery, and returns

What are the shipping costs?

We offer free shipping within the Netherlands and Belgium for orders over €35. For orders below that amount, we charge €4.95 (NL) or €6.95 (BE). Delivery within 1–3 business days after dispatch — custom photo kits arrive after 5–7 business days of production.

What is your return policy?

Standard kits can be returned within 14 days, provided they are unopened. Read the details on shipping & returns.

Can I send a kit as a gift?

Yes, absolutely. At checkout, you can add a personal note, and we will package everything in our branded shipping box as standard, without price tags. Need a gift card? Here.

I can't figure it out — can someone help?

Email info@stitchlystudio.com with a photo of where you're stuck, or send a message via contact. We usually email back within one business day — often with a short explanation or a drawing.