Machine Embroidery

I have created some machine embroidery samples using different materials. To machine embroider onto the voile fabric, I had to ensure the fabric was stretched tight onto the hoop and used a longer stitch to prevent tearing the fabric. I created the lunar tripple eclipse with the pentagram in the middle. I then developed this sample by using two different coloured threads. The black underneath the orange creates a shadow like effect making the embroidery stand out. I found voile was difficult to work with due to how thin the fabric is. It isn't possible to draw on the fabric as it doesn't show through. Even with a fabric marker I found the pen marks would disappear after 30 seconds or so.

I created a star shape on cotton material using two different colour threads on the sewing machine. Due to the fact my cotton was black. This sample isn't very exciting as it's just one star. It could be made more interesting by adding other colours to the star. The velvet sample features the wheel of the year symbol however it is hard to see as the thread is black on dark green fabric. This fabric was harder to machine stitch onto and has bunched in some areas.

I also created a couple machine embroidery logo samples. The cauldron sample was created on calico which I find is the easiest fabric to machine embroider onto however would not be suited for a collar. I like the untidy style of this sample as it's still clear enough to see what the sample consists of.

I've experimented using water soluble fabric to create the typography of my logo. I drew out my letters, machine stitched onto the fabric thoroughly to prevent it from falling apart once the fabric dissolves. I then added warm water to the sample to make the fabric dissolve, leaving behind the letters. I really like this sample and I'm considering creating my sign for my exhibition using this technique. This would be far more interesting than printing it out. I shall experiment using this material to create letters on a bigger scale.

I created this sample first to get into the motions of machin embroidery. This material is polyester organza which is very fine but not as fine as voile, making it slightly easier to machine embroider onto.