Elizabeth took up some needlework, and was sufficiently amused in attending to what passed between Darcy and his companion.
Pride and Prejudice
According to Victoria Adams Brown, author of several silk ribbon embroidery books, silk ribbon embroidery made its first appearance in England in the early 18th
century when London dressmakers began copying the French technique of broderie de faveur. The famous French couture house, the House of Worth, increased the
popularity of silk ribbon embroidery, when Charles Worth’s master embroiderer, Michonet, began using roccoco ribbons to adorn the gowns of the rich and famous.
Before that silk ribbon embroidery first adorned the vestments of the clergy. From there it could be seen on the gauntlets of high-ranking soldiers, and then
filtered into the fashion arena. During the Industrial Revolution, the Nouveau Riche, did not want to be seen in mass-produced gowns. They changed gowns up to
five times a day, so they hired the services of Charles Worth, which spawned the famous couture houses that even today, continue to dress the wealthy and the
elite.
Ribbon embroidery uses the same embroidery stitches that have been popular for hundreds of years – except stitched with ribbons. The most popular width of
ribbons are 4mm and 7mm, although larger widths are gaining in popularity.”
The beauty of Silk Ribbon embroidery is that it takes almost 1/5 of the time to execute when compared to cross-stitch or other embroidery methods, and it is
almost impossible to make a true “mistake”. Even the novice can pick it up in an afternoon and soon be turning out beautiful, one of a kind embroideries. During
the Regency era, a great deal of a gentlewoman’s time was spent visiting and being visited. While one ought not to pull out the mending to repair in front of
company, it was perfectly acceptable to take along some piece of fancy needlework to stitch on while chatting. Cushion covers were embroidered and handkerchiefs
monogrammed, giving the worker a chance to show off one of her accomplishments and allowing her companions to marvel at the size and accuracy of her stitches.
Below you will find instructions for ten basic stitches, which, when combined can be turned into any number of elegant little projects. Practice them on plain
fabric at first and when you feel confident, try embellishing a pillowcase or reticule– perhaps even a gown or petticoat! You can also buy ready made kits both
in craft stores and online at places like www.joanns.com and
www.jdr-be.com. Victoria Brown’s website, www.ribbonsmyth.com features a wide array of kits, supplies, patterns and other ribbon embroidery projects.
We also have a lovely craft section at our own giftshop. Click here.
To begin, you will need:
- 1 large-eyed needle
- 1 12″ square of muslin or target=”new”>Aida cloth
- 1 8″ embroidery hoop
- A selection of 4mm silk ribbons (or at least one package)
- Small scissors
Place your fabric in the hoop, making sure it is pulled tight.
Thread your needle.
To secure the ribbon when stitching, pull the ribbon through your fabric once, leaving a 1/2″ tail on the back side of your fabric. Stitch through that tail when
making your second stitch. Your ribbon is now in place and you are ready to begin!
http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/t00017.asp” target=”new”>knots and spiderweb (woven) rose.
