The Different Types of Embroidery Smocking
North American Smocking
North American embroidery smocking uses iron-on transfer dots to
form a pattern. The pattern consists of a definite grid since there
are no pleating threads to form your smocking piece. While stitching
on these dots, pleats, as well as a smocking design are formed
simultaneously.
It is believed that the Butterick Pattern Company was responsible
for creating this type of smocking in the early part of the 20th
century. As a result of the popularity of Butterick patterns during
that time, smocking became more accessible to the general public.
North American smocking was most popular from the 1930's through the
1960's. However, this style of smocking is no longer very popular as
the major pattern companies have focused on the English style of
smocking due to its increased popularity.
Counterchange Embroidery Smocking
Counterchange embroidery smocking is a type of embroidery smocking
that is used on striped, gingham or dotted fabrics. In this form of
smocking, you would mark the location where you place your stitches.
This form of smocking originated in the south prior to the Civil
War. It became popular again after the Civil War, then sometime
later was no longer used much. However, in the past 10 years
counterchange embroidery smocking has experienced a resurgence. The
counterchange embroidery smocking method has evolved into a
distinctive form of picture smocking without cables.
The uniformity of striped fabrics, as well as gingham or dotted
fabrics can be used to creating smocking pictures such as bears,
waves, hearts and other objects.
Lattice Embroidery Smocking
Lattice embroidery smocking is often used in the smocking of
decorative items such as accent pillows. This method of smocking is
done on the reverse side (backside) of the fabric to create
distinctive and steady folds on the front of the item. This smocking
technique is also used on sleeves and bodice fronts. It works well
with heavier fabrics such as velvet and velveteen.
Italian Shirring
Italian shirring is a form of smocking that is very elaborate using
a symmetrical pattern of smocking. Its roots are in the basic
running stitch.
Machine Smocking
Machine smocking can be done by first pleating the fabric then using
decorative machine stitches over the pleats. You will need to use a
clear appliqué presser foot or an open-toe appliqué foot to do your
stitching. It is best to pleat the fabric using a pleating rather
than iron-on dots.
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