THE ART AND CRAFT OF EMBROIDERY—THE SIX POINTS
“Chaires, Stooles and Screen, the same, all of Satten Stitch done in Worsteads.”
We shall now consider the six important points of design.
Art and Craft.—Many women have an inherent instinct for needlework—that is, the craft of the needle—for the knowledge of how to use a needle and thread is generally easily acquired; but it is quite otherwise when the design, the artistic or imaginative part, has to be carried out, as it ought to be, by the worker. Then all sorts of difficulties arise, mostly imaginary, as those who make an attempt may find.
Let us here consider the design as a necessary part of the workmanship. We shall be ambitious enough to study embroidery from an artistic point, for the art and the craft ought surely to go hand in hand.
The Habit of Design.—A special knowledge of drawing is not essential for pattern making—a child will make delightful patterns—nor for simple designs composed of straight lines and geometrical forms, such as might be happily applied to borders for articles of daily household use or for personal wear. A ruler, a compass and a sheet of squared paper are sufficient for initial efforts: and once the habit of simple designing is acquired it can become a wonderfully absorbing pastime, for eyes that are opened to see will find designs on every side.
Good Taste and Common Sense.—To carry out a piece of work successfully, however, the embroideress must possess good taste and common sense; these are indeed important qualities, the possession of which will help the beginner enormously: add to these an eye for colour and form, a practical knowledge of the stitches commonly in use, some acquaintance with materials, their utility and adaptability, and the worker will find herself fairly well equipped to start her design.
The Six Points.—There are about six points to be considered in connection with a piece of embroidery:—
The Object and its Use.—We must decide this, bearing in mind the position the work will occupy when finished; choosing a material suitable for the purpose, and with due regard to the restrictions of economy.
The Colour Scheme.—Consider the environment, and let the scheme be in harmony with or in contrast to the background and surroundings.