To help, please watch a video showcasing the same technique for this design: https://youtu.be/YOVhEcZzPhY
Colors
Structure of Greek Letter Embroidery Design
The embroidery design consists of 5 layers of stitching:
- Running Stitch (Layer 1): Indicates the applique position seam.
- Tack Down Stitch (Layer 2): Secures the applique fabric in place.
- Satin Stitch Outline (Layer 3): Covers the edges of the applique for a clean finish.
- Fringed Elements (Layer 4): Includes long satin stitches to create the fringed effect.
- Satin Stitch Accents (Layer 5): Provides additional detailing and a polished outline to enhance the design.
In short:
Fringing is a simple process. Stitch the design as usual - the larger satin stitches will appear loose. After completing the design, flip the hoop to view the reverse side, and cut the bobbin thread along the large satin stitches. Then, flip the hoop back and fluff up the "fringe" around the design.
Scissors
I use scissors from Fiskars and Kai, which I truly adore. You can find them on Amazon at the following links.
* Kai 4-inch Curved Needlecraft Scissors:
https://www.amazon.com/Kai-4-inch-Curved-Needlecraft-Scissors/dp/B008AY90PY
* Fiskars Curved Craft Scissors, Orange:
https://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-98087097J-Curved-Scissors-Orange/dp/B000B7OSS2
While I find Kai scissors to be superior, they pose a higher risk of cutting through the base fabric. Fiskars scissors, on the other hand, may require a sharpener after some use. For that, the Fiskars Clip-Sharp Scissors Sharpener is an excellent choice, available here:
https://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-6411501960078-Clip-Sharp-Total-Length/dp/B001GHV3AM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa
Overall, my preference leans towards Kai for their quality.
Detailed Process
1. Stitch the Design Complete the Greek letter design. Focus on the long satin stitch columns that create the fringe.
2. Cut Bobbin Threads
Turn the project over to the reverse side. Carefully trim the bobbin thread, staying close to the top stitches that secure the fringe in place.
3. Fluff up the Fringe
Flip the project back to the front side.
Use the tip of small scissors to gently fluff up the fringe.
Looped or Open ends
On the backside of the project, you have to cut the bobbin thread along the long satin stitches. This will create a looped fringe on the right side.
Sometimes, the bobbin thread might not be visible. It's actually quite simple to adjust the tension of the bobbin thread to make it looser, allowing you to see it more clearly. Then, you can trim only the excess bobbin thread. As a result, you will get the fringe with loops.
If you don't want to make any adjustments to an embroidery machine, you can still trim by estimating where the bobbin thread could be. Start by trimming small amounts at a time. This might result in the fringe having open-edge threads instead of loops, but it's also okay.
For the best results, I recommend using polyester embroidery threads instead of rayon or silk. When cutting fringe, it's best to use small, sharp embroidery scissors rather than thread nippers or other thread removers.