Embroidered Lace

Lace is among the oldest forms of fashionable customization of clothing. There are many uses for embroidered lace. It is a simple addition to garments, but highly effective. It can transform a plain garment into something very special.

Lace can be embroidered with any pattern that can be stitched into ordinary fabric. However, smaller and more delicate patterns are often more effective, because lace is a very delicate and feminine fabric to sew onto. Other details may be added, such as beading, to provide detail to the pattern on the embroidered lace. Designs also go through a different process when they are stitched onto lace rather than any other kind of fabric. Lace embroidery is usually performed on devices called Schiffli machines, which hold the lace firmly in position while the stitches are put into the fabric. Once the stitches have been correctly positioned, the fabric is held together by applying moisture or heat, which dissolve the fabric and leave behind thread interwoven on the cloth. There are many beautiful and ornamental designs that can be machine-stitched onto lace.

The patterns that can be featured on embroidered lace are almost limitless. The most popular are floral designs, particularly of flowers such as roses and daisies. Other natural detailing such as leaves and snowflakes, which are very delicate, are popular. Patterns such as dots and hearts are frequently used. There are also more complex designs, such as miniature outdoor scenes, elaborate floral arrangements and names in ornate script.

Embroidered lace can be applied to any garment to make it look more special. Using too much lace should be avoided, because it may make the clothing look too fussy. A small amount of lace on a skirt or a top is a nice touch and can put new life into tired clothing. Duchess lace is usually used on cushions. For a baptism, garments for the baby often make use of lace that has been embroidered with patterns, particularly patterns such as crosses that are appropriate for the occasion.

Expensive bridal dresses often make use of embroidered lace. The kind of lace most frequently used is called princess lace, and it is appropriate for bridal dresses because of its complex design and the delicate appearance. The lace is often used to provide a soft and feminine finish to the hem of the dress. Generally, the color of the lace used will be the same color as the main body of the dress. However, some dresses may use lace of a slightly different shade to add an interesting contrast. For a more subtle touch, lace of the same color as the dress but with different colored embroidery may be used, so that the embroidery provides a small contrasting detail. Popular embroidered patterns for bridal lace are flowers, leaves and other natural emblems. Stitched lace ornaments can also be purchased from many suppliers. These include items such as brooches, which can be fixed to garments to add an interesting touch to an outfit. Stitched lace can also be used to make other jewellery, such as necklaces.