Decorative stitches using black thread on homespun (off-white) fabric:
a - zig zag stitch changing stitch length
b - zig zag stitch changing stitch length and distance between rows
c - three step zig zag changing stitch width
d - straight stitching worked in non parallel rows sewn to the edge of the fabric
e - decorative satin stitch changing width, length and row spacing
f - whip stitch using zig zag with black thread and loose bobbin tension
g - whip stitch with white top thread and black bobbin thread, creates a dotted effect as white thread is not clearly visible
h - whip stitch using straight stitch and white thread in top spool
i - cable stitch using black perle thread (No 5) in the bobbin and white thread on top, changed thread to thinner (No 8) half way through and increased stitch length and space between rows to create tonal changes
j - cable stitch using white No 8 perle thread in the bobbin and black cotton on top, varying stitch length and space between rows
k - cable stitch using three step zig zag stitch with stitching in different directions and crossing lines of stitching to create variations in tone
l - quilt stitch used with varied stitch length with black thread in the bobbin and transparent monofilament in the top thread, creating a spotted effect
Cable stitch samples using different yarns and background fabrics:
- White cotton perle and lustrous yarn on white background with black cotton thread providing texture and pattern with a netted effect
- Black perle on white and black background fabric with white cotton providing a fragile, broken pattern
- Tapestry wool gives a softer matt effect
Just for fun I have created some decorative stitch effects using white thread on black fabric. I had the opportunity to use my mother's fabulous new sewing machine and had some fun with the lettering and decorative stitch functions.
From the many choices available I chose stitches that resembled animal markings in combinations and variations in stitch size.
I thought it would be fun to create words with stitching to match those I had used to describe the animals and markings in pictures I had collected. Along with this some relevant stitches have been added to highlight this.
Greek and Chinese lettering add some interesting variation if not sense :-)
Working Sheet:
Experimenting with decorative stitches to resemble animal markings.
White thread was used on black marbled cotton fabric. Stitches used are: zig zag, three step zig zag, hem stitch using different widths and lengths.
Overlaying stitches and stitching across in three step zig zag creates spaces and imagery of reptile and tortoise skin. Zig zag in different lengths and widths resembles the feathers of an owl. Feather stitch in different directions resembles the feather markings around the owl's eyes.
