History and Tools of Embroidery

Study Notes

Embroidery originated from the old French word "embroider" meaning edge and border
Introduced to the Orient in the 15th century by the Netherlanders
Brought to the Philippines by the Spaniards, where it flourished
Nuns were the first to practice embroidery in convents during leisure time
Embroidery became popular and women started creating their own designs
It was initially done by hand but the use of sewing machines revolutionized the industry
Today, Filipinos export embroidered items due to intricate designs and skill

Gauge measures short distances
Tape measure measures distances longer than a foot and materials
Thimbles, made from metal or plastic, protect the middle finger while pushing the needle and come in different sizes
Embroidery hoop/stiletto, made from wood, bone, metal or plastic, helps to keep the fabric stretched while applying embroidery stitches
Embroidery scissor is small, sharp and pointed for trimming scallops, clipping threads, and cutting large eyelets.
Needle threader simplifies threading for those with poor eyesight
Pounce is a fine powder used in transferring designs by pricking method
Embroidery needle, short pieces of steel with a fine point and eye, should have a fine tip for easy fabric penetration
Crewell needles, sizes 1-10, are sharp-pointed, medium length with large eyes for standard embroidery stitches
Chenille needles, sizes 13-26, are thick, long with large eye, suitable for heavier yarns
Tapestry needles, sizes 13-26, are similar to chenille but blunt, ideal for thread-counting embroidery
Watercolor brush transfers designs using pricking and pouncing methods
Pin cushion holds pins and needles
Tracing paper helps trace designs
Sewing box stores embroidery tools and materials