140728✽
Back to smocking. I decided to see if I could make something that looked like English Smocking on the embroidery machine. (I know smocking designs exist, but I didn't study them as I wanted to work through the process for myself.) Here is my first attempt. I'm quite pleased with it, but to be honest, I think I would have preferred to do it by hand!
Pros: Precise and you know what the finished size will be.
Cons: Not elastic like the real thing. Gathering threads need removing which isn't easy as they are trapped in the embroidery. WSS topping is needed to prevent the foot getting under the fabric ridges - this had to be washed out.
Do any of you have experiences to share?
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Comments (9)
169076✽
I don't have any experiences to share, but I am very impressed with your attempt.
158720✽
For your gathering threads use a water soluble thread. Keep it in a sealed bag to prevent it getting brittle and mark it NOT FOR SUIMSUITS.
5 comments
lol
LOL indeed! Is it strong enough?
Yes, it is.
Can't find any here in England.
Found some now...but very expensive.
109899✽
No experience here with machine smocking. I, like you, prefer to do by hand, much prettier and doesn't 'crush' the pleats.
7806✽
I like the attempt you have made here Sue ....its pretty! But.....I would say your hand work was even prettier and I am sure you find it worth all the hard work :)
Thanks once again for sharing your experience!
Thanks once again for sharing your experience!
16529✽
by
vickiannette
12 Apr 2015
+4✽
looks fantastic. I like jrob hint about water-soluble thread for the pleats.
255066✽
45918✽
Great work.. just a thought have you ever tried wss thread that way the thread would dissolve away no unpulling. I use this to patch together cut offs of my wss to make it go further.. Marian
1 comment
sorry should have scrolled down vickiannette and jrob had same thoughts
145308✽
I like your design, and think you are right about the pros and cons. Love the real thing better, but for a quick border this is not bad at all.
173695✽
I am so glad you did this! I have a piece already gathered, because I thought that was how it was done? Now I want to go back and learn the old away so there is elasticity in the final product. In the meanwhile I will try to embroider on this piece.