embroidery patterns

The term embroidery is basically defined as the method of ornamenting a piece of clothing with needlework; or embellishment with fanciful details. Thus embroidery is regarded as the art of decorating textiles using a needle and thread. This includes the hand and machine embroidery methods. And till date, hand embroidery continues to be an expensive and time-consuming method. However, in spite of this it is preferred because of the intricacy of the handiwork involved.

The basic techniques an embroiderer uses includes :

1. Cross stitch
2. Crewel work
3. Quilting

According to the historical findings, the oldest embroidery patterns to have survived the cruel ravages of time are the Scythian. This refers to the period ranging from 5 BC to 3 BC. And amongst the most exquisite embroidery samples are those the Chinese silk robes of the Qing Dynasty, which was between 1644 to 1912. Another example of fine embroidery is from the Islamic dynasties.

In fact, geometric patterns are part of the Islamic needlework heritage. Till date, most embroiderers, till date seek inspiration from the age-old Islamic patterns. The Indian patterns have been inspired from varied methods of the west. However, there are also original Indian techniques that are popular all over the world.

Today, even though embroidery is amongst the most traditional methods of decorating clothes, it is still as popular. Designs may date back to ancient times, or the modern geometric modern day designs, but all the same embroidery continues to be one of the common ways of decorating clothes. In fact, specialists feel that today, there is much more scope for creativity and innovation, because of the acceptance level.