Cotton Linen vs. 100% Linen: Which Fabric Is Better for Embroidery?

I get asked quite often what fabric I use for my embroidery, so I thought I’d share a little more about the two fabrics I use most cotton linen blend and 100% linen.

Both can be beautiful fabrics for hand embroidery, but they feel quite different to work with. The best choice really depends on the project, the fabric itself, and your personal preference.

Cotton Linen Blend — My Everyday Choice

A cotton linen blend is the fabric I use most often for my embroidery.

I like it because it feels relatively stable in the hoop, which makes it easier to control my stitches. This is especially helpful when I’m working on small details, flowers, leaves, or decorative stitches that need a little precision.

It also tends to be a little easier to work with for beginners. The fabric holds its shape nicely in the hoop, so you can focus more on learning your stitches rather than worrying too much about the fabric moving or becoming difficult to handle.

For anyone just starting out with hand embroidery, a cotton linen blend is a great place to begin.

100% Linen — Natural Texture & Character

I also love using 100% linen.

Linen has such a beautiful, natural texture, and I love the character it brings to handmade embroidery. Depending on the weight and weave, it can feel a little more delicate and may wrinkle more easily than a cotton linen blend.

That doesn’t mean 100% linen is difficult to embroider on. In fact, a good-quality, tightly woven linen can be wonderful to stitch on.

It simply has a different feel.

For me, 100% linen is especially lovely when I want the fabric itself to have a little more presence and natural texture alongside the embroidery.

Which Fabric Should You Choose?

If you’re new to embroidery, I’d recommend starting with a cotton linen blend.

It’s generally easy to handle, feels stable in the hoop, and makes it a little easier to get comfortable with your stitches.

If you already have some experience, or simply love the natural look and texture of linen, try 100% linen and see how it feels in your hands.

There isn’t really one “right” fabric for embroidery. Different fabrics can give the same design a completely different feeling.

My Personal Preference

For most of my embroidery, I reach for cotton linen blend because I love how easy and comfortable it feels to work with. 

But I still enjoy 100% linen for its beautiful natural character. So if you’re wondering which one is better, my answer would be: there’s no single best choice.

Try both when you can, pay attention to how they feel, and you’ll gradually find the fabrics that work best for you and your stitching style.

After all, embroidery is meant to be enjoyed.

And when you’re ready for your next little project, you’re always welcome to explore my hand embroidery patterns at joooyco.com.

Happy stitching!

Joooyco Studio