The original materials stated were: Strip of grey kid; strip of oil silk; 1 skein black silk; 1 skein red purse silk; 1 hank steel beads; steel button.
Now I am not sure what kind of fabric "kid" could be, unless it really could be from that of a ruminant? I tried to search it, but to no luck, so do let us know if you find the answer to this. Oil silk is apparently silk painted with oil to make it waterproof, pretty much like our oilcloth of present day I would presume. (UPDATE: Thank you to Lemon Tree Tami and Jacinta for the explanation of "kid" fabric as can be read in the comments section. Much appreciated!)
So keeping those colors in mind and the stitches as stated in Part 1, I went ahead and worked on the design unto a more common grey linen fabric. And since I have no access to luxurious silk skeins, I am working the stitches in 3-strands of polyester sewing machine threads (this is purely a personal preference as I love working with these threads instead of embroidery floss).
Here are the scrolls being worked in red chain stitches:
Next Monday we will tackle the Overcast Stitch, embroidering steel beads and giving a pattern for those tedious side scallops :-)
Till next time, wishing you all a stitchy week ahead!
I would imagine that kid refers to kidskin, or leather made from goats - usually the kids. It would be very soft and strong, normally used for purses and womens shoes.
ReplyDeleteKid is a type of really soft leather made from lamb or young goat skin (hence kid). IIRC, kid leather gloves tends to pop up in classic romances, you know, just before they slap dashing young men for being cads ;)
ReplyDeleteStitching with the polyester sewing thread gives it a really interesting looking texture with the way the threads keep to themselves but still form the stitch (I hope you understand what I mean). I've never used it for embroidery before, but think I'll keep it in mind for the future!
they're right -- 'kid' refers to soft leather, often from that of a young goat.
ReplyDeleteOften used for ladies' gloves -- kid gloves! (not just a figure of speech!)
Kid is often used in Goldwork and sometimes in stumpwork as well. It's a lot of fun to use and once you get the hang of it, it goes quite quickly. You can find Kid at Alison Cole Embroidery and Jane Nicholas Embroidery as well. I'm not sure where you can find it in the states.
ReplyDeleteI love the red you're using, it's so bright and looks fantastic on the fabric. Thanks for sharing this with us.
I love this, the linen and rec look fab together! Fliss xxx
ReplyDeleteThat red chain stitch is really striking on the grey fabric, and the stitches are inspiringly perfect. :) Looking forward to the next part!
ReplyDeleteI love this and am really in love with the stitching and colour of the work.....
ReplyDelete