Page 23 - HAND EMBROIDERY ARTISAN_TT

Handicrafts & Carpets Related Theory for Exercise 1.2.09
Hand Embroidery Artisan - Stitches and Threads

Hand embroidery threads

Objectives: At the end of this lesson you shall be able to
• describe threads
• state the types of threads.

Embroidery, a traditional art form, uses various threads The Stranded Embroidery Cotton is also called ‘the
for decorative stitching. Thread types include embroidery embroidery floss’. It is made of single strand that are
floss, crewel yarn, silk and specialty threads like fire- required for the embroidery.
resistant and colour-changing options.
The thread is not separable. They, however, come in
These threads differ in texture, weight, and application, different thicknesses, each marked by a size number.
allowing for a wide range of designs and techniques in The thicker the thread, the lower the size number. It’s
both hand and machine embroidery. made of natural fiber cotton of high strength. It does not
Different types of threads are used for making embroidery elongate when stretched but breaks instead.
stitches. If the embroidery of ancient and modern age is Dyes may be colorfast. The lubricity of this fiber is low, but
compared, one can find a huge difference in the threads it will cause lint to form from abrasion rather than stretch.
and the techniques used in creating them.
Silk: Silk threads often come in spools and in vibrant
Earlier, only hand embroidery existed but as time passed, colors. The thread is thin and needs to be layered to
machines were introduced and today computerized make the required thickness.
embroidery has captured the hearts of the designers
and people. Silk thread is great for needle painting and fine
embroidery. Being thin, it can be used to couch down
The threads contain thermo-chromic pigments that are thicker threads. If you’re going for luxury, silk thread is
responsible for the color change. (Fig 1) the way to go.

Fig 1 It’s smooth, strong, and gives a lovely finish. It’s best for
intricate hand embroidery, but it can be pricey and a bit
harder to find. (Fig 2)

Fig 2

Types of threads

Stranded Embroidery Cotton are the most common
embroidery threads. It comes in a myriad of colors, each
identified by a color code. These threads come in hanks.

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