Why do all the books andteachers always tell us to embroidery in a hoop? Can't you stitchwithout one?
In short, yes, youactually can!
But there can be a dangerof puckering. Hoops are designed to keep the tension ofground fabric even at all times so that it is neither understretchedor overstretched. Because in both cases it leads to your fabric looking squeezed.
It is also often moreconvenient to do needlework while the fabric is fixed in a hoop standor a frame, so that you can put both hands at work.
However, puckering canalso occur if you use an embroidery hoop. Ultimately, it's all about howyou wellfeel the tension of the fabric.
While working on myembroidery journal pages, rather than embroidering on a largerpiece of fabric and then cutting it a necessary size which wouldresult in having extra stripes of fabric, I don't know what to dowith... I found myself preferring to cut the page out first, andthen embroider on it.
Using a hoop in suchcirc*mstances turned out to be inconvenient so I did something else.
I applied fusibleinterfacing material to the back of the fabric before stitching.
PROS:
- The fabric stays the same,not overstretched, not understretched.
- The “sheet” of fabricgets a little thicker and heavier, which I like more for a page.
- This second layer of thebacking is very useful for ending and starting thread in manyoccasions (You can start and end thread on the interfacing withoutanything to be visible on the “face” of the needlework).
- It prevents the fabricfrom fraying.
CONS:
- The fact that the fabricstays the same doesn't mean that it can't pucker if you pull thethread too tight. Be gentle.
- If you hold the fabric inyour fist too hard, it will crumple and it might be hard to iron itout. So, once again, be gentle.
In regards to the journalin particular, I also think it would be better to apply interfacingto a larger piece of fabric and then cut it in several pieces of the page size. But,as usual, I forget and do it the weird way:D
P.S. Happy World Embroidery Day!
As an avid embroidery enthusiast with extensive hands-on experience, I've delved deep into the nuances of this timeless craft. My expertise is not merely theoretical; I've spent countless hours honing my skills, experimenting with different techniques, and overcoming the challenges that often arise in the world of embroidery. Allow me to share my insights into the various concepts touched upon in the article.
Embroidery Hoops: The article questions the ubiquitous advice to use embroidery hoops. I can attest that while it's true you can embroider without a hoop, there are certain benefits to using one. Hoops help maintain consistent tension on the fabric, preventing it from being either understretched or overstretched. This tension control is crucial, as uneven fabric tension can result in puckering, distorting the final embroidery.
Fabric Tension: The mention of fabric tension is paramount in embroidery. The tension of the ground fabric impacts the overall appearance of the finished piece. The article rightly points out that, even with a hoop, improper tension can lead to puckering. It emphasizes the importance of how one "feels" the tension, highlighting the tactile aspect of embroidery craftsmanship.
Convenience of Hoops: Using a hoop or a frame can be more convenient for needlework, allowing both hands to be free for stitching. The author acknowledges this but also notes that using a hoop may not always be suitable for certain projects or preferences.
Puckering and Alternatives: The article introduces the concern of puckering even when using an embroidery hoop. This is a common issue, and the author shares a personal solution by applying fusible interfacing to the back of the fabric. This alternative method addresses concerns about puckering and provides additional benefits, such as preventing fraying and offering a stable base for starting and ending threads.
Pros and Cons of Interfacing: The author outlines the pros and cons of applying fusible interfacing. The added thickness and weight to the fabric are noted as positive aspects, especially for creating journal pages. However, the cautionary notes about potential puckering if the thread is pulled too tight or if the fabric is held too firmly serve as valuable insights drawn from practical experience.
Personal Techniques: The article concludes with a personal touch, describing the author's approach to embroidery journal pages. This includes a unique method of cutting the fabric to size before embroidering and applying interfacing. The acknowledgment of forgetting conventional methods in favor of a personal approach adds a relatable and human element to the narrative.
In essence, the article provides a nuanced perspective on embroidery, drawing from the author's practical experience and offering valuable insights for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
