Practical Suggestions From Experts In Custom Embroidery In NYC

By Helen Patterson


Embroidering is an ancient art. It goes back almost to the the time of Christ. It is still a popular craft with artisans creating quilts, wall hangings, and pillows as well as embellishing all types of clothing. It is a pastime enjoyed by many, but only a few have really mastered the art. If you are interested in taking up this craft, you should consider the suggestions of professionals in custom embroidery in NYC.

Floss is thread comprised of six strands which can be separated. You have to know how many strands are needed to create the effect you are looking for. The more depth you want, the more strands you will need. Six strands are great for flowers and stems, large text works, and for filling in. Three strands are good for satin stitches, small text works, and outlining small objects. Two strands are also good for satin stitches and small text works.

You will have to master the basic stitches to become adept at embroidery. There are special stitches to create specific effects. Most embroiderers use straight, running, chain, or satin stitches to fill in areas. French knots will work for filling in, and will give your piece a very different look. Satin, petal, and woven wheel stitches are popular choices for flowers. Splits, flies, back stitching, and stems work well for branches.

Floss is notorious for knotting suddenly and for no apparent reason. You have to work the knots out instead of letting them gather in back of the fabric. If you don't undo the knots it will be impossible to flatten your fabric when you are finished. The lumps will be clearly visible and will indicate that you are a novice when it comes to embroidering.

Another indication of a beginner is a completed piece with a messy back. It's tempting to carry the floss all over a piece instead of clipping it when you finish an area and starting a new line of stitches. The back can get so full of floss that inserting the needle into the fabric becomes difficult. Looking at the back side of a piece of embroidery will tell you a lot about the skill of the embroiderer.

Forcing the needle into the fabric will only create big holes and may even ruin the whole piece. Not letting the floss knot will help this problem. Not carrying the floss all over your piece will help as well. Instead of forcing the needle, try going through slightly higher or lower than the spot that's blocked. Creating a hole on the reverse side will work sometimes.

You can't embroider in the dark. You must have plenty of light to see the subtlety of the color variations. Squinting at your work for hours will produce a bad headache and stitching mistakes. You can use a book light attached to your hoop or next to you. This is a lot better than lamp light.

Embroidering is relaxing. It's also a great way to express yourself creatively. For just a few dollars you can purchase a simple kit. Once you've gotten some experience, you might try designing your own piece with your favorite colors and stitches.




About the Author:




EmoticonEmoticon