Lesson 2.1
Getting Started with the Lunéville Hook: Basic Tambour Chain Stitch
In this practical lesson, you will learn the basic movements of tambour embroidery. We will begin by aligning the hook with the screw on its handle, then practise catching the thread and rotating the tool. You will learn how to secure the starting thread and create a continuous line of chain stitches with controlled, repeated movements.
Materials to Prepare
Embroidery frame with mounted fabric
Lunéville hook
Embroidery thread
Scissors
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
Align the needle’s hook with the screw on the handle.
Hold the tool comfortably and practise its rotation.
Position your supporting hand and thread beneath the frame.
Catch the thread and draw a loop through the fabric.
Secure the starting thread by passing its tail through the loop.
Rotate the hook through 180 degrees and return it to its starting orientation.
Repeat the movement to create tambour chain stitches.
Your Practice
Before working on the fabric, practise catching the thread and rotating the hook between your fingers. Use the screw as a guide to the hook’s orientation.
Position your supporting hand beneath the frame and draw the first loop and thread tail through the fabric. Hold the tail with your last two fingers, make another loop, and pass the tail through it to secure the beginning.
Continue with a short line of chain stitches. Focus on catching the thread, rotating the hook before pulling each loop through, and returning it to its starting orientation before the next stitch. Work slowly until the sequence feels comfortable.