7 Key Embroidery Terms You Should Get to Know

These embroidery posts are a must-read if you want to discover amazing tools, techniques, and styles

If you've ever stepped into the world of embroidery, you'll know that it offers endless creative possibilities. In most cases, you only need two items to get started: a needle and thread. But how can you approach new techniques and styles or try out new tools? Besides constantly looking for new references, another alternative is to get to know different embroidery terms.

Knowing more about crewel embroidery, needle painting, or latch hooking will push you to experiment. If you are just starting out or want to keep learning, discover these seven inspiring types of embroidery. To learn more about each one, just click on the titles in red.

What Is Embroidery and What Are the Main Types of Embroidery?

Did you know that almost every culture has some sort of history with embroidery? Some examples date back as far as the 5th century B.C. It is fascinating to explore its history and see its evolution.

This is a great way to learn about different techniques available to you and experiment freely. Before picking up your needle, learn more about this exciting practice. This will also help you appreciate the value of each piece you create.

What Is Punch Needle and How Is It Different to Other Embroidery Styles?

Before you try out punch needle embroidery, you will need to find a tool with a unique history. One of the most traditional magic needle models, and possibly the first, is made by hand using a wire. It comes from Russia and is smaller than a finger.

In this post, embroiderer Laura Ameba will share more curious details about the history of this tool and practice. She will also explain how to get started and what kind of projects you’ll be able to create. Many of Laura's pieces that she has made using a magic needle have been exhibited in galleries in Paris, Barcelona, and Tokyo.

What is Latch Hooking and Locker Hooking?

Embroidery is often given a modern twist, as is the case with these two styles that emerged in the early 20th century. Latch hooking owes its name to the type of needle it uses, a latch hook. Locker hooking is another type of hooking technique that is carried with a different tool.

The key to these processes is the way they combine colors and intertwine wool with other materials. Textile artist Mariana Baertl, an expert in these two techniques, tells you everything you need to know.

What Is Goldwork Embroidery?

Created in Asia over two thousand years ago, this type of embroidery uses metal threads and stands out for the way light interacts with it. Not only does embroidering with metal thread make the fabric more rigid, but it also adds a unique aesthetic quality.

You will have most likely seen striking references to this embroidery style in works of art. However, what is the main tool used called? What exactly does the technique consist of? How has it been applied in haute couture? Discover all the key principles for working in this unique style that has been experiencing a contemporary renaissance.

What Is Needle Painting?

When practicing needle painting or thread painting, traditional painting and drawing techniques are used to create shadows, add volume, and give your image structure. The needle becomes the brush and the thread becomes the paint.

Although there are many embroiderers that each have their own style, the realism and visual effects incorporated into such pieces make them jump out at us. Be inspired by different examples before starting your needle painting journey. Then, get ready to experiment!

What is Crewel Embroidery?

A technique using a range of different stitches, crewel embroidery, or crewelwork, uses thick wools. It is at least a millennium old and can be seen on decorative objects such as tapestries and curtains, as well as luxury garments.

In recent years, it has been incorporated into contemporary embroidery and used to decorate pieces such as cushions, clothing, and wall hanging. If you want to know more, read on to discover its origin, history, and the materials you’ll need.

What is Blackwork Embroidery?

This type of embroidery emerged in England during the 15th century. As the name suggests, it is a technique using only black thread. Later, other styles were developed incorporating geometric patterns, curvilinear forms, shading, and gradients.

Although it disappeared in the seventeenth century, it has resurfaced again recently and gained a lot of popularity. If you are curious about blackwork, learn more about its characteristics, origins, and materials used.

How many of these embroidery concepts did you already know about? Now, start experimenting with your needle and thread and learn new techniques.

If you’re not sure which embroidery course is for you, take a look at this selection.

English version by @eloiseedgington.

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