I can't answer your question about embroidery, but there are so many members who will be able to help you. I make my rag quilts using a cheap flannel instead of batting. I cut the flannel the same size square as the front and back square piece and I sew a scant 1" seams. This makes it a great rag seam and you can either quilt the block or not. Now my quilting friends are making their rag quilts this way, too.