Embroidering a large picture, which takes months to complete, is not the same as embroidering small works.
Embroidering a large picture is a unique process that captivates and becomes even more fascinating as the embroiderer sees something grandiose emerge from small stitched sections over time. This process is truly joyful, bringing satisfaction both during the work on a serious embroidery project and in anticipation of the joy of the finished piece.
What are the main differences in cross-stitch embroidery of large pictures?
Embroidering large pictures requires not only skill but also a special approach.
One of the key elements in this process is the use of suitable equipment. Floor or tabletop embroidery frames become your reliable allies in creating a work of art.
While some embroiderers use small hoops and stretch the canvas fragmentarily, it is inconvenient. A good embroidery frame allows you to evenly stretch the fabric, ensuring beautiful work with smooth, uniform stitches.
In a large picture, there are usually many colors and shades. Therefore, it is crucial to organize your workspace with good lighting. You must have the convenience of laying out the pattern and all necessary materials. For threads, be sure to get a handy organizer. Proper organization of your workspace will prevent distractions and thread tangles during work.
Advantages of Embroidering a Large-Scale Picture:
Firstly, such pictures are often embroidered only with cross-stitches, without backstitch or other types of stitches. As a result, a very deep image is created, resembling a painting done with brushes.
Secondly, the large size of the embroidery allows detailed work on many important elements. In portrait embroidery, detailed stitches on the eyes and other facial features are crucial. In landscape embroidery, cross-stitches detail beams of light, shadows, and many small elements, giving the embroidered picture a special character, making it lively, unique, and incomparable.
Tips for Those Embroidering Large Pictures:
- Switch to other projects. Embroidering a large picture can be tiring. Remember that embroidery should bring us joy. If you are tired of a big project, switch to something simpler and embroider a small piece. When choosing such embroidery, pay attention to its color palette. For example, if your large embroidery project is in blue-green shades, switch to a small embroidery in bright red-yellow tones, and vice versa. If your project has bright and saturated shades, choose muted and light tones for the distracting embroidery. It's also better to switch to embroidery with a completely different theme. If your current project is about nature, try embroidering people or abstraction.
- Allocate time for planning. Divide the large picture into small sections and plan the execution step by step. You will understand exactly how much time the embroidery will take. This reduces the feeling of overwhelm, as you will know when you can finish this embroidery project.
- Don't forget about motivation. Communicate with colleagues in embroidery communities. There, you can exchange experiences, receive support, and get inspiration from other creative embroiderers. During challenging moments, visualize how your picture will look after completion. This will help you maintain motivation.
Embroidering large pictures is not just a hobby; it is a true art that requires patience, skill, and a love for creativity. Remember that embroidery is not only about the process but also about the joy of the finished work. May each of your works bring you joy!