Lesson 2.4
Tambour Embroidery with Metallic Thread: Geometric Practice
In this lesson, you will embroider the fourth practice figure with metallic thread, applying the chain stitch technique practised with cotton thread. We will focus on choosing a good-quality thread that resists splitting, following the traced outline, and creating precise corners with short securing stitches.
Materials to Prepare
Embroidery frame with your traced practice figures
Lunéville hook
Good-quality metallic embroidery thread
Scissors
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
Choose metallic thread that resists splitting during embroidery.
Secure metallic thread with a starting lock.
Follow a geometric outline with tambour chain stitches.
Create sharp corners using short stitches in the opposite direction.
Finish and secure both thread ends around the embroidered chain.
Your Practice
Begin with the fourth traced figure. Make a starting lock with your metallic thread, then embroider along the outline using the same movements practised with cotton thread.
At each corner, make a very short securing stitch in the opposite direction. Return to the drawn line and continue along the next side, repeating this process at every angle.
Once the figure is complete, draw out a large loop and cut it. Secure the thread end by wrapping it around the embroidered chain three or four times, or more if needed. Repeat with the starting thread tail, then check that your corners are clearly defined and both ends are secure.