Embroidery Patterns

The introduction of computerized embroidery has resulted in numerous patterns readily available for your use. Indeed, you can simply search for and download patterns that suit you. You can opt for the patterns available for free or broaden your selection by purchasing premium quality ones. Many of the embroidery patterns are easy to use, some just requiring the use of a hot iron to transfer onto fabric. All these fall into special categories although there is some overlap.

Jacobean embroidery refers to the styles that were prevalent during the reign of King James I of England. It is currently used to describe a type of crewel embroidery that has fanciful plant and animal shapes. The Elizabethan style, on the other hand, derived its name from the reign of Queen Elizabeth, a period that was known for its costumes. There is a simple form of embroidery known as black work where black thread is stitched on off-white fabric and is normally carried out on even-weave fabric. It was traditionally stitched in silk thread on linen or cotton fabric. There are three main types of black work. The earliest ones used to have geometric or small floral patterns. Later types featured large designs flowers, fruit, and other patterns. In the latest styles, the outlined patterns are "shaded" with random stitches that imitate etchings. Presently black work has a modern feel due to its austere, formal quality.

Forbidden Chinese stitch was so named because it was forbidden among young girls since its fineness contributed to eyestrain. Some are so fine that they can barely be seen from more than a foot away! Triangle point embroidery uses a variety of equilateral triangles which are stitched in various colors, creating a geometric design. You begin with vertical stitches on two threads, followed by adjacent vertical stitches with four threads, others over six and eight threads respectively before repeating the procedure in reverse.

Pattern darning embroidery uses parallel rows of straight stitches of varying lengths to create a geometric pattern. Threads are anchored in the foundation fabric in the edge of a hole then carried across it and anchored on the other side. The hole is eventually covered with a mass of thread. Another type of embroidery is Berlin wool work, which is actually a subtype of canvas work. Fancy embroidery embellishes the seam lines between individual pieced shapes.