Embroidery with Sequins: Indian and French Techniques
In this lesson, we will complete our first embroidery pattern by exploring the techniques of applying sequins using both Indian Aari and French Lunéville embroidery methods.
We will begin with the Indian technique, combining metallic threads and sequins to embroider the remaining decorative leaf. You will learn how to place sequins directly onto the hook, maintain even spacing, and create a beautifully defined leaf tip using short directional stitches.
Next, we will practice the French Lunéville technique, working with pre-threaded sequins on a bobbin from the reverse side of the embroidery frame. We will begin by embroidering a geometric square, focusing on precise corners and consistent sequin placement, before applying the same technique to the inner section of the larger decorative leaf.
By the end of the lesson, you will have completed your first embroidery pattern, combining regular and metallic threads, beads, and sequins using both traditional techniques.
Materials and Tools You Will Need
Prepared embroidery frame with your partially completed embroidery pattern
Lunéville embroidery hook suitable for Indian and French techniques
Metallic embroidery threads for decorative stitching
Sequins suitable for tambour embroidery
Pre-threaded sequins on a bobbin for the French technique
Thread bobbin for supplying sequins beneath the frame
Scissors for cutting threads
Pencil or fabric-marking pen for drawing practice shapes
What You Will Learn
By the end of the lesson, you will be able to:
Apply sequins directly onto the hook using the Indian Aari technique.
Combine metallic threads and sequins to create decorative leaves.
Maintain consistent 2–3 mm spacing between stitches and sequins.
Form sharp, well-defined leaf tips using short directional stitches.
Prepare and work with pre-threaded sequins using the French Lunéville technique.
Apply sequins from the reverse side of the embroidery frame.
Create geometric shapes with clean, precise corners.
Embroider decorative leaf details using closely spaced sequins.
Secure thread ends with locking stitches and neatly conceal loose threads.
Complete an embroidery composition combining Indian and French techniques with beads, sequins, and metallic threads.
This lesson brings together the fundamental skills developed throughout our first practical exercises, helping you gain greater precision, consistency, and confidence in tambour embroidery.
Practice
Begin by completing the remaining decorative leaf using the Indian technique, applying sequins directly onto the hook and combining them with metallic chain stitches. Pay particular attention to maintaining even spacing and creating a sharp, well-defined leaf tip.
Next, prepare your pre-threaded sequins on a bobbin and practice the French technique by embroidering the final geometric square from the reverse side of the frame. Focus on accurate sequin placement and forming clean corners.
Finally, apply the French technique to the inner section of the larger decorative leaf, following the drawn outline and securing the thread neatly at the end.
Once your embroidery pattern is complete, take clear photographs of your finished work and share them with me, along with any questions or observations.
Congratulations on completing your first embroidery project! You have now practiced the essential techniques of Indian Aari and French Lunéville embroidery, creating decorative elements with regular and metallic threads, beads, and sequins. These skills will provide a strong foundation for the more intricate embroidery projects ahead.