Hemstitch has become a popular embroidery design due to its beauty and elegance. It is very easy to learn how to embroider using this method; it is used to decorate many products. In fact, this is a through seam, for which you need to pull out the threads. Then the unused threads are collected into a pile using thread using various methods. Blouses and dresses made with this stitch look very stylish.
Hemstitching for beginners on canvas
First, it’s better to try and learn how to perform this type of seam on canvas. Because the threads on the canvas are pulled out very easily and simply, this method is ideal for those who have just started embroidering. First you need to cut about 6 perpendicular threads with a blade or a stationery knife. The width of the hemstitch should not exceed one and a half centimeters, so it will look neater and more beautiful.
It is very comfortable to pull out the threads step by step with a needle, reaching required size, then cut the same 6 threads. You must always be careful while working to avoid delamination of the ends. At the beginning and at the end of any type of seam, the edges should be carefully processed. To do this, you should step back a little from the edge, thread a thread with a knot tied on the tail, thread the thread into one hole a couple of times and go to the next one. The thread comes out in the unused cell at the top and work begins.
Tassel hem
This technique is used not only as a separate stitch, but also as a basis for other stitches. The work begins by grabbing a couple of columns of threads from behind, and directing the needle forward to the corner that is located below. Next, we continue the process of working using this method and at the end we should process the edge in the same way as it was done at the very beginning. The result is very original pattern both on the outer zone and on the inner part of the canvas.
Hemstitch-column
First we make a hemstitch tassel, and then we do it in the same way, but only on top. We begin the work by working on the edge, then smoothly move to the bottom, then again to work on the edge and up; for more comfortable work, embroiderers often turn the embroidery over. As a result, a kind of continuous circle is performed. All this applies to other seams. Now you need to disguise the thread on the inside of the product, but only in a processed form. As a result, a column was formed; complicated seams can also be made from it.
Merezhka-split
In this method, we again make the brush first. Next, usually from the other part, we combine the halves of the columns together.
Openwork hemstitching for beginners
We sew a hem in a column and direct the needle from below to the middle of the edge, then carefully remove the thread. Now we simply twist the columns together, that is, between each other, picking up the second one, which is located further. The thread should run neatly along the central part of the crossed columns. At the end, we fix the thread, which is in the middle in the processed edge.
Merezhka bug
In this method, we pull out another row of threads to perform this type of seam. Next, it is woven into a column from the hemstitch and the thread is directed along the central zone of the edge, which is processed. Further, in the process of work, we cover three columns with a needle, again direct the needle behind them and under the thread that is being worked. Now carefully tighten the resulting buttonhole. As you work, you need to count the columns so that there are no extra columns left at the end.
Merezhka-punk
Very interesting view hemstitch, it combines other types. In order to perform it, you need to pull out a couple of rows of threads at a distance of two or three cells. The area around it needs to be treated with the same brush. Further, the technique for working out the central part is similar. The rows are decorated with already studied stitches, making the central zone in an openwork hem or a bug; you can apply and string beads or beads.
These are simple and very decorative types of hemstitching for those who have just started embroidering and learning this type of seam. With these hemstitches you can decorate a lot of different things, making simple and complex ornaments. These seams look very stylish and elegant not only on adult things, but also on children's things. You can decorate not only things with them, but also various accessories, for example, covers for mobile phones or for tablets and laptops.
Enjoy your creativity and beautiful seams!
Video on the topic of the article
Our great-grandmothers could not imagine a cozy home without textiles decorated in this way. Blouses, dresses, and sundresses were decorated with elegant hemstitching. Hemstitch embroidery looks especially sophisticated and gentle on christening sets for babies.
The ancestor of technology was an ancient type of needlework called “horsework”. Later, embroidery with pulled threads began to be called “by pulling” or “by the middle.” It is believed that this technique marked the beginning of lace making.
Products decorated in this way look elegant. Since the fashion for any type of embroidery has returned, needlewomen should pay attention to hemstitching. It is an openwork embroidery. Before the process begins, a certain number of threads are pulled out of the fabric.
Embroidery fabric
For this type of embroidery, it is important to choose the right fabric. It could be:
- batiste;
- silk;
- canvas;
- cotton fabric.
Choose a material with plain weave threads. It is easy to pull out elements from such fabric and it is not at all difficult to work with.
Threads
Threads should be selected taking into account the density of the material. For work you can use:
- bobbin threads No. 10 and No. 120;
- floss;
- threads drawn from fabric.
The color scheme can be any depending on the design. Traditionally, hemstitching is done with threads to match the fabric or with a difference of several tones.
Hemstitching for beginners
Hemstitches are openwork seams. They can be the main part of the pattern or serve as an edging for the design. This type of embroidery refers to counted stitches. Ornaments made using hemstitching are distinguished by their subtlety and grace.
Embroidery always starts with rocking chairs. Let's figure out how to do hestitching. Fasten the thread to the fabric using the “loop” method and then make a rocking chair. It is a vertical column embroidered with 2-5 threads of material and the height required for the design. The “rocking chair” secures the threads of the fabric that will need to be trimmed and pulled out for hestitching.
Rows of hemstitching are done from right to left. The ends of the threads need to be secured in the rockers from the inside out. The element is ready and now you need to trim and pull out the threads. We make half-columns to the end of the row.
Italian hemstitch for embroidery
This hemstitch consists of two half-columns separated by horizontal threads. Again, we start work with rocking chairs. Italian hemstitching consists of two strips of columns separated by horizontal threads (four rows). We embroider the hemstitch: we hug the threads in the lower strip of columns and draw the needle diagonally into the upper strip of columns. We do all this until the end of the row.
Hem "Tassel"
It is also called hemstitch “Twig” (single). We make a rocking chair and draw a path on the fabric. On one side of the material we tighten the threads. Thus, a “tassel” hem is formed. We do the same on the opposite side. Now the columns will be pulled on both sides.
When working with a shared arrangement of threads and pulling out 5 weaving elements, four of them will go to the tassel. If you are going to make a hemstitch along a transverse weave, then you will need to remove four elements, and the “tassel” will take five of them.
Types of patterns
There are a number of the most popular patterns using the hemstitch technique. These include:
- tassels;
- columns;
- goat;
- flooring.
Bead embroidery also works perfectly with this technique. Skilled craftswomen create complex and sophisticated patterns with beads: beads or glass beads are placed on a thread between the hemstitch elements. This is a complex and amazingly beautiful work that requires real skill.
Caring for products with hemstitch decor
Products with hemstitching require careful handling. Let's start with the fact that such things are not suitable for everyday wear. Textiles with hemstitching are also used on special occasions, since frequent washing and ironing will inevitably lead to deformation and damage to the embroidery.
You can only wash items decorated with hemstitching by hand in not very hot soapy water. The powder is selected according to the composition of the fabric. If you still decide to use machine wash, then choose a delicate cycle without spinning. Spinning products at high speed is strictly prohibited!
Products should be ironed at the lowest temperature. To do this, prepare slightly damp gauze in advance. Don't drive around one place for too long. Try not to stay in one area for more than 1-2 seconds.
Ready-made embroidery kits “Merezhka”
The Ukrainian company of the same name is considered the most popular in the handicraft community today. The “Merezhka” embroidery set from this manufacturer can consist of blanks for decorating products with beads and different techniques embroidery Manufacturers produce both small products for interior decoration and blanks for tablecloths, dresses, sundresses, and shirts.
It is very convenient to embroider products from a Ukrainian manufacturer - the design is immediately applied to the fabric. The kits include threads, fabric, beads, and a diagram. Some of them are equipped with a frame for decorating embroidered paintings. Some kits also include a guide to hemstitching techniques for beginners.
Airy embroidered shirt in white on white with hemstitching
From time immemorial, Slavic women wore embroidered shirts. As a rule, they were embroidered with black, red or white threads. The last option is considered the most sophisticated and, as they say, “not for everyone.” White embroidered shirts decorated with delicate hems were chosen by modest girls.
White-on-white hemstitch embroidery and decor are traditional for northern countries. It arose there for a reason, but due to the fact that the days there are shorter than in the south, and embroiderers had to work in artificial light. Since there was little light, and the work had to be neat, the needlewomen came up with the idea of pulling threads from the edges of the products in order to see the boundaries. Later they noticed that embroidery with openwork inserts looks graceful and unusual.
There is also a region where hemstitching is very popular in Ukraine. This is the village of Reshetilovka in the Poltava region. Here craftswomen have been passing on their knowledge from generation to generation for several centuries. Reshetilivka embroidered shirts and textiles are bought by brides and grooms for themed weddings in folk style. This product is necessarily decorated with delicate hemstitching.
In the years before World War II, the best craftswomen of the union worked on thematic panels that were supposed to glorify the Union of Republics. The most famous product was called “Moscow - the port of five seas.” There were depicted:
- Kremlin;
- Mausoleum;
- wheat ears.
In 1939, a world exhibition of folk crafts was held in New York, where a tablecloth embroidered by craftsmen from the USSR was presented. The exhibit was called “Constellation”. It depicted 11 stars, corresponding to the number of republics of the huge country. Panels depicting Stalin or the workers' and peasants' army were also popular.
Hemstitch embroidery has another name: “hardanger” or through stitch. The best way to learn embroidery is on canvas. It's easier to pull the threads out of it. This type of needlework is a meditative activity. Its implementation brings joy and extraordinary tactile sensations to needlewomen.
Hemstitching is a very old method for decorating products such as tablecloths, napkins, pillowcases, and shirts. And to this day this skill has not lost its popularity. Hemstitching for beginning craftswomen is accessible to absolutely all women in a way that does not require any sewing machine, nor any other expensive costs. There are many types of creating a hemstitch - this is a post (the easiest way), and a tassel, a goat beetle and many other types.
What is the essence of the technique of this needlework? Some threads need to be pulled out of the fabric, and those that remain are collected in bunches and as a result comes out beautiful pattern.
We study a step-by-step master class for hemstitching for beginners
These include the following components:
- canvas, linen or silk;
- stationery knife or blade;
- needle;
- threads in the required colors.
For beginners the best option fabric is considered canvas because it is very convenient and easy to work with. Silk can be used in cases where the skills of working with hemstitching are sufficiently high. This is a very delicate, delicate work.
You need to start by carefully cutting several horizontal threads on the canvas with a blade or stationery knife. We make the hem width no more than one and a half centimeters so that the finished product looks neat and beautiful.
The next stage of our work will be pulling out the threads; this is convenient to do with a needle. Threads need to be removed from left to right gradually. Having reached the desired length, you need to cut the six elongated threads on the right. Care must be taken to ensure that the ends of the cut edge do not fall apart. The photo below shows this stage. If only horizontal stitching is intended, there is no need to cut vertical threads, as shown in the photo.
In order to process and secure the edges, we retreat one cell from the beginning of removing the threads. We thread a thread with a knot into the needle and insert the thread into one cell twice. Then we move on to the next one. This stage must be completed, regardless of what pattern we will embroider.
Hemstitch “Tassel”.The tassel hemstitch method is the simplest method. This type of seam can be used either independently or as a basis for other types of seams.
We begin to embroider the tassel from the right or left corner of our product, depending on what is convenient. We insert a needle and thread into the prepared strip on the canvas, secure it with two stitches and bring it to the front surface of the product. Next, we grab several threads (from three to five), twist them around and make a loop and sew like this without making any passes. We capture the same number of threads each time.
Based on the “tassel” hemstitch, you can make the following simple hemstitch seam, which is called a “column” or “twig”.
The type of hemstitch “column” is “tassels” embroidered at the bottom and top, or in other words, these are stripes with elongated threads. How to do this correctly? You need to start in the same way as in the previous case, from the corner. After we complete one side, we transfer the working thread to the other side and make the lining, as below. We embroider as if in a closed circle. The number of threads that we take per stitch must certainly be the same.
Merezhka "Split".From the “column” you can get more complex types of seam, such as “split”. In order to make this seam, you first need to make a tassel on one side. The number of tassels should be even. If this does not happen, the pattern will be unfinished. Then on the other side to embroider the tassel we need to use a needle to grab half of the first bunch and half of the next one in one stitch and so on until the end of the row. In the end, the columns are not straight, as in the previous version, but split into two parts.
We embroider the hemstitch using the “column” method. There must be an even number of columns. We wrap a thread and a needle around them in pairs in the middle of the seam on which they are placed. It is necessary to secure the beginning of the thread in the first column, use a needle to pick up the next column and connect them with a free loop. Be sure to thread the needle through the loop and tighten with thread. It is advisable to do this a couple of times to make the knot stronger. In this way we continue the hemstitch until the end.
Embroidering this way is not that difficult. Just like for an “X”-shaped hem, you need to intertwine the twigs, but their number must be increased from two, as in the previous hem, to a maximum of six. We fasten the thread, embroider a hemstitch (column). We insert the needle behind the second column, grabbing the first and scrolling them in downsides, as if intertwining with each other. The thread stretches in the middle between the twisted posts, fixing them. There are many variations to this stitch, but this one is the simplest.
Merezhka "Floating".In this option, it is necessary to cut from 10 to 20 threads on the canvas with a blade, depending on how wide the pattern should be. You can use threads that match the fabric or contrast. The essence of this method is that the threads are laid on twigs, from which a pattern is formed. It can be embroidered in the form of squares, zigzags, and diamonds.
Initially, we embroider twigs on both sides of the prepared line. They will need to be connected in two or four pieces. A thread and a needle are passed through one twig, connecting a pair of them into a column. Then we embroider in the opposite direction, again through one twig, just not the one that was in the previous case. This method is similar to grandma's method of darning socks.
Additional video on the topic of the article
To visually introduce and summarize the material written above, a video is presented showing master classes by needlewomen who shared their experience.
There are quite a lot of embroidery techniques, but one of the most fascinating and in demand is hemstitching. Looking at products made using this technique, it sometimes takes your breath away, it is so delicate, elegant and mysterious. And it even seems that in order to learn this skill, you need years of hard training, but not everything is as difficult as it seems at first glance. In this article we propose to consider the art of embroidery using the hemstitch technique for beginners.
What is hemstitching and what does this technique consist of? Hemstitching is an openwork embroidery that is performed along threads threaded through the fabric in the form of a strip. This embroidery is used to decorate napkins, tablecloths, collars, clothes and much more. The principle of embroidery itself is that from the threads remaining in the intended strip, certain bundles are formed using a needle and thread, thus forming fascinating patterns.
To perform hemstitching, no special material or equipment is required; the most important thing is your attention, patience and perseverance, since this type of embroidery is very painstaking.
Proper preparation
As in any other art, you need to start with the basics and with the right material. So, for example, it is recommended to use plain weave fabric, but for beginners it is better to practice on canvas, since it is very convenient to pull out threads there. You can use any thread, the main thing is that it matches the density of the main fabric; it can be ordinary spool threads, or you can use floss in several folds.
In order to carefully cut the strip for embroidery, you should use well-sharpened scissors or use a blade.
Also, in order to prevent the strip from unraveling, you should process the edges; to do this, you need to lightly overcast them, as shown in the photo.
That's it, now you can start embroidering patterns.
3 main types
Before we start embroidering, let's look at the types of simple patterns.
- "Tassel" pattern. Using a needle and thread, grab several longitudinal threads, at least 3, and place them in a loop. Repeat this way until the end of the row.
The “Tassel” pattern is one of the main patterns, from which other patterns are subsequently reproduced
- Pattern "Columns". The execution pattern is the same as with a tassel, only the threads must be captured on both sides.
- Pattern "Split".
For this pattern, you need to make a tassel, and then, moving the rows, make a cross.
These are 3 main patterns that are present in every complex pattern. Let's look at more complex patterns using 3 main ones in a detailed master class.
Little "Bug"
Very delicate and beautiful pattern:
To do this, you need to take the “Column” pattern as a basis. Next, grabbing 3 columns with a needle, we tie it with thread, thereby making a loop and tightening it.
Openwork pattern
Having properly prepared the basis for the hemstitching, we begin to embroider the pattern.
We pull every 10 threads into a “Column” pattern.
Please pay special attention that in this pattern you must have a central thread.
Using a needle, we cross two columns together, as shown in the photo.
Any outfit can be decorated in such a way that it acquires individuality and reflects the taste of the owner of the item. A modest blouse, dress, scarf will become more elegant and elegant, a tablecloth, towel, curtains with hem will add a unique look. How to do this embroidery is shown in the photos given in the article.
Hemstitch
This is a very old and recently fashionable technique. It is made using fabric carefully prepared in a special way. In the place where the embroidery will be located, the transverse threads are removed, the number of which depends on the planned width. After this, the work is performed using one of the types of patterns. This is how the hemstitch is made. Let's look at how to do it further.
It is not difficult to make a hemstitch; it does not require any special devices or materials. But at the same time, this type of needlework requires extreme care and accuracy, otherwise the product with embroidery will look ugly.
This method is most often used when decorating products made from cotton and all kinds of tablecloths, blouses, bed linen, kitchen towels and curtains. Hemstitching will look very impressive on any of these products. How to do it? Let's study.
Types of patterns
The beauty of hemstitching lies in the neatness and method of execution of the pattern. There are several types of it. Here are the simplest ones. All of them are performed using a needle and thread on a prepared area of fabric where the transverse threads have been removed.
- Tassels. We pull the needle with the working thread through 3-5 main threads and tighten them with a loop. We perform stitches in the same way until the end of the row.
- Columns. These are the same tassels, only they are made on both sides of the fabric. You can stretch an elegant cord between them.
- Merezhka is split. Consists of tassels made in a checkerboard pattern.
- Goat. It connects the columns, each time the connection point moves, and it looks like a cross.
- Flooring. The working thread is pulled into a fairly dense surface, which is similar to satin stitch embroidery.
This is only part of the patterns that make up the hemstitch. How to make them? First you need to practice on a small piece of fabric, and only then you can start embroidering. If you do the work slowly and carefully, you will get a beautiful pattern, because the hemstitching is done as evenly as possible, and the work turns out even and smooth.
Skilled embroiderers add beads to the patterns, and several more variations are obtained. It is also possible to perform hemstitching with ribbons. This pattern turns out to be voluminous, and if you choose the right color it will look very impressive.
Simple hemstitching
Let's look at how to do hestitching step by step. For beginners, the best way to get acquainted with this type of needlework is to embroider on cotton or linen fabric. It holds its shape well, does not slip, and the threads are clearly visible on it.
Make a cut along the edge of the cotton fabric and use tweezers to pull out several transverse threads. First, we will process the edges so that they do not crumble. Then, using a prepared needle and white thread, we tighten 5-10 threads together with a loop. We fix each loop on the canvas. In this way we pass both edges. Now we cross adjacent bundles in pairs, securing them in the center with an additional thread. This is a very simple way to make hem on fabric. Such simple embroidery will be an elegant element of any item, moreover, the funds used to complete the work are minimal, which saves the budget.
If you choose the right combination of colors of fabric and thread, you can get very beautiful drawing, which will be a prime example of how to make a hemstitch. For beginners in this type of needlework, such embroidery will allow them to master the methods and techniques of work. You can decorate with this pattern kitchen towel, pocket on a blouse, pillowcase.
Hemstitch on canvas
Now let’s look at how to make hemstitching on canvas with a “split” pattern.
The canvas is quite loose, so you need to work with it carefully, otherwise the embroidery can be ruined. But at the same time, such a rare weave will help to complete the drawing correctly, especially for a novice needlewoman.
First you need to learn how to pull out the strings. This is done using a blade, with which we cut about six threads. You should not make a wide hem, as the pattern will be lost in this case.
First we go through one edge. It is better to treat it immediately so that it does not bloom further. Then we decorate the second edge in the same way.
When the outline is prepared, we proceed to the drawing. Let's look at how you can make a hemstitch step by step. For beginners, the “split” pattern will not be difficult to perform. On one side of the embroidery we make a tassel of two threads. We carefully go through the seam so that the loops are clearly visible. On the other side, we connect the threads of different columns into one tassel.
You can combine several strips of embroidery made with different patterns, and if you add colored threads, the pattern will turn out bright.
On a napkin
At the next stage of getting to know this type of embroidery, we’ll look at how to make a hemstitch on a napkin.
Along the edge of the napkin, leaving room for a hem, we pull out eight to ten threads from the fabric. Let's go through all the edges in this way. Now let's make the folds. Then you can start embroidering. You should always sew from left to right.
We secure the thread by making several stitches. We collect from 4 to 8 threads on the needle (optional). The needle goes from right to left horizontally. Then we insert the needle from the wrong side and tighten the working thread to form a tassel. In this way, go along the entire length of the napkin. We must remember that the brushes must be of the same thickness, so you must carefully count the number of threads. Also pay attention to the passage of corners so that they are neat.
This work clearly shows how to make a simple hem on a napkin.
This type of needlework can become an exciting hobby. Decorate clothes and interior items - what could be more fun!
Depending on their level of familiarity with this technique, needlewomen can embroider works in a different range: from small, thin embroidery that serves as a decorative element, to complex flat patterns. The same applies to the color scheme: white embroidery can be replaced by colorful hemstitching.
The hem can be used to decorate a tablecloth or bed linen, a festive blouse or a ribbon for a hat. In any case, using basic techniques, you can experiment and use different combinations of colors and patterns.
Slow, painstaking work will allow you to relax, and the end result will leave a feeling of satisfaction in your soul.
