Palmistry

I have created some embroidery samples inspired by palmistry. I wanted to experiment further with embroidering onto silk and see if using a heavier type would prevent the pulls. For the shape of the hand, I drew an outline of my own hand. This method created uneven looking fingers as I couldn't see exactly where I was drawing. I drew the three main hand lines (head, life and heart) and symbols to represent the other lines. This entire sample is back stitched apart from one symbol which is sating stitched.

I found using the thicker silk prevented the fabric from pulling as much, however in some areas the material was strained.

I like the idea behind this sample as it conveys aspects of palmistry. However after doing further research, I discovered more symbols and meanings. The two symbols on the small and ring finger aren't positioned correctly and should be at the base of the fingers.

To improve on this sample I will draw a more precise hand shape and include more symbols with the correct positioning. Out of silk and calico, I prefer embroidering onto calico so I will create my next sample with calico.

A persons element (earth, wind, fire, water, spirit) in wicca can be defined by the size and shape of their palm. I used this as an opportunity to improve on the symbols I drew on my pentagram piece. I used a ruler to measure out 4 equal sided triangles so I had more of an accurate, neat shape. For the fire and water symbols, I chose 3-4 shades of blue/red to blend together. Previously, I only used to colours which changed instantly. For this sample I wanted it to gradually move into the different colours to give it a smoother look. I satin stitched horizontally starting from the bottom. When I felt I needed to change to the next tone, I did a couple of stitches with more of a gap. I then filled in the gaps with the next colour and repeated to give it an ombre look.

The satin stitches were quite long towards the bottom, so once I removed the embroidery hoop the stitches are loose. Even though this wasn't my initial idea, I quite like the effect.

The earth symbol contains more brown thread to represent soil and vice versa for the white representing the air symbol. I feel I have improved on my satin stitches as i've kept the shape to create a tidy outcome. I also found using calico far easier than silk. I also feel the spirit symbol is very neat with the stitches joining nicely,