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Silk embroidery is a lovely whimsical art form. This unique form of embroidery can be applied to just about anything that is cloth or paper. Customize greeting cards, picture frames, jewelry boxes, sweaters, jeans, table clothes, or anything else that you can imagine. If you love applied art, then this is the craft for you. The results are quick, satisfying and every so exquisite. Before you get started however, there are some tips to remember to keep your project going smoothly. Follow these and you will be sure to create a piece to be proud of.
Tip #1 :Pre-washing.
Silk Ribbon can bleed when you wash it. Although this is not always the case, but it is better to be safe than sorry. There is nothing worse than spending hours of work making your project to have it ruined the first time you wash it. I can tell you, this has happened to me. I cried! A short soak in cold salter water will be enough to wash out excess dye out of the ribbon and set the remaining color. If you are in doubt how proceed with the pre-wash of the ribbon, follow the manufacturers instructions for pre-washing your silk ribbon carefully. Likewise, the fabric you are working your project on can also bleed or shrink. Check your fabric first before attempting to start your work. Pre-wash it per instructions. Pre-washing of your fabric and silk ribbon will ensure that your project can be washed in the machine without a disaster, and will last for years with the proper care.
Tip #2: Hoops
What is the point of a hoop? Silly question for us experienced embroiderers, but not so for novices. Hoops are essential for completing your work. The purpose of the hoop is to hold your fabric taut and provide a flat surface for you to stitch. It also allows you to gauge the tension of your ribbon. I have explained this in tip # 4. Hoops come in a variety of sizes, from small ones at about 5 in. to large ones at 12 in. Plastic clip frames are also available. Many stitchers prefer these because they don't pull the fabric in as tightly as a hoop. Ideal for delicate fabrics. Hoops are the difference between a project that is a joy to complete, or a project that gives you nothing but grief.
Tip #3 Lock Stitch:
You know how annoying it is to have your thread slip out of the needle while sewing. Frustrating isn't it? Especially if you are half blind like me and need to use a magnifying glass to thread just about any needle. There is a way to preventing the silk ribbon slipping out of the eye of the needle. Every time you thread the needle as you would normally, insert the needle into the ribbon about 1/2" from the end that was threaded through. Then pull the entire length of the ribbon gently through to lock it on to the needle. This is called a lock stitch.
Tip #4: Length and ends of the silk ribbon.
Silk ribbon is a woven fabric which can lend itself to some problems while stitching. It is not like a length of thread or wool. Here are a couple points to remember before threading your needle. First of all, make sure that the ribbon is cut on the diagonal. This is crucial, otherwise the ribbon will fray as you work and be very difficult to bind off. Secondly, make sure the ribbon is no longer that 1 foot for the widest ribbon, and shorter for narrower ribbons. Any longer than that and the ribbon will start to lose its shape. Just keep in mind that it is a delicate fabric, and should be treated as such.
Tip #5: Tension:
If you knit or crochet, you know the importance of tension. The proper tension consistently maintains a even pattern. As it is with silk ribbon embroidery. The objective tension would be relaxed (not loose unless that is the look you are aiming for.) Allow the ribbon to relax on the surface of the material. This way the ribbon develops a life of its own, and makes its own soft shape. Inconsistent tension, either too tight, or too loose will bunch and pull at the fabric and the ribbon. The finished work will look lumpy. It is a technique that is developed by trial and error, but after a little practice, it will come easy.
Tip #6: Pinning:
A lot of ribbon embroidery involves making loops, bows or curves. You will find that the use of straight pins keeps your ribbon stable and in place as you finish your stitch. This will help your work to remain consistent and look polished.
Tip #7: Finishing off
I like to look at the back of my project and see it neat and secure. There is nothing worse than a bunch of stray ribbon and long connecting lines that are at risk of getting caught, fraying or pulling out. I have a rule. Finish off each area of color before continuing on. Don't be tempted to jump across you work with a length of ribbon, just because it requires the same color. Take a moment to finish that area and secure the ribbon. Start by bring the ribbon to the back of the work. Cut the ribbon at a diagonal,and fold it under. With a crewel needle threaded with sewing thread, stitch it to another piece of ribbon without stitching the fabric. If you do attach it to the fabric, it will show on the other side.
Tip #8: Post Washing
Your project can be machine washed, but like all fine things, it should be treated with some care. Use a pillow case or stocking bag and put your project in that to protect it from being caught in the wash by the agitator or other clothing. Use a delicate cycle, and cold water. The spin cycle should be minimal, if not at all. Avoid using the dryer, but hang to dry instead. After, if the silk ribbon embroidery looks flat, damp it with a little water, and gentle manipulate it with your fingers.
Following these tips will be your guide to learning to silk ribbon embroidery. As with all things we are tempted to take shortcuts. I am guilty of this as are a lot of people, but with applied art, taking shortcuts is the ticket to making a mess. Keep in your mind the vision of your finished piece. Take the little extra steps to make it be something you can be proud of.
Like me you may develop a deep respect for ribbon embroider and would like a guide to silk ribbon embroider. There are resources that offer detailed explanations, pictures and patterns that will help you evolve your craft. Click on my website, spend time following through on the links. You will like what you see. Cheers, and happy stitching. http://www.geocities.com/maryanneastman/embroidery.html
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Article added to SearchWarp.com on Monday, September 01, 2008 View other articles written by MaryAnn Eastnab(441)
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