I recently ordered a Gel Press. While waiting for it to arrive, I made some texture plates to use with it. I also made wax stick rubbings of letters and numbers.
Tomorrow, the plan is to make china marker code pieces. I think that will be the most promising to use in place of embroidery.
Texture Plates
The materials are mounted on either cardboard or a thin square of wood.
Packing Material
Cardboard
Cardboard with Cotton Twine
Rug Mesh
Tile Mesh
Variety of Cardboard