Beginner's Guide to Goldwork Embroidery by Kate Haxell

Author:Kate Haxell [Haxell, Kate]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: SewandSo is an imprint of F&W Media International, Ltd

importance of tension

Successful embroidery requires that you keep the stitches the same length and maintain an even tension. This is really a question of practice. If you are using a new stitch, or working one that you haven’t used for some time, work the stitch on a scrap of the project fabric before you begin on the embroidery. Work as many test stitches as it takes to start producing an even line. Time spent doing this will save time unpicking mistakes.

FRAMING AN EMBROIDERY

If you are going to frame a piece of embroidery, it is worth preparing it properly. Having spent the time stitching it, it would be a shame to rush the finishing process.

To centre an embroidery exactly in a frame it helps to have an equal border around the edge of the design. Measure the inside of the frame and add 5–10cm (2–4in) depending on the size of the embroidery. This is the size you want the fabric to be. At the top of the fabric, measure out to each side from the centre of the fabric by half the calculated width and mark this with a pencil. Repeat the process at the bottom and along each side ege, then draw lines between the marks to create a border. Check the measurements by centring the backing part of the frame over the design. You should have a wide border of fabric all around the backing. Check that the design is centred within the drawn frame and that the fabric grain is straight. Trim the fabric along the drawn line.

Now when you lace the embroidery, it should be easy to centre it on the padded board. If desired, you can also draw or tack the fabric where the edges of the board will be to help position it easily and correctly. Although this may seem like extra effort, it makes the next stage much quicker, as well as reducing the possibilities of error.

When you are ready for framing check that the frame and glass are clean and dry on both sides, with no smears on the glass. Lace the embroidery to the board following the instructions below and then fit it neatly in the frame. Seal the back with gummed paper tape, pressing it gently into the rebate. The tape will shrink as it dries, sealing in the picture and helping to keep out dust and tiny insects.

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