The photo above shows the very first embellished wrap I designed for my book titled Wrapped in Embroidery. In fact the whole book idea had its start with this particular pashmina wrap. You see, awhile ago I started collecting pashmina scarves and discovered their versatility. Practical and elegant, they can be worn as a shawl or as a stylish scarf. Tossed over your shoulders, tied in front, folded for a dramatic scarf, there are so many ways to wear this fashion accessory! Pair a pashmina with a dress, T-shirt and jeans, and all manner of casual and dressy clothes. A pashmina wrap is perfect for dressing up or down. Great for travel and sudden climate changes, they take up almost no space in a suitcase or your everyday tote bag for that matter.
As a machine embroidery enthusiast I really wanted to embellish this beautiful but plain expanse of fabric. However, due to the soft nature of the fibers I knew that embroidery directly on a pashmina would be a challenge. I experimented with embroidering on fabric blocks and bands instead of directly on the pashmina. I found that the finished look is neat and attractive on both the top and bottom side.
Traditionally, a pashmina refers to a shawl woven from a special fiber. Today it is commonly used as a generic term for a soft wrap. These plain wraps available in many stores and the quality can vary greatly. For my Florals and Ribbons wrap I opted for a 2-ply Pashmina/Silk Wrap purchased from www.thepashminastore.com. If you are looking for a pashmina that will last, and one that is worthy of the time and effort of added embroidery I highly recommend this type, believing it is far superior to those found in discount stores. You’ll find that the weight of this 2ply wrap is ideal for the added embroidered bands.
As a machine embroidery enthusiast I really wanted to embellish this beautiful but plain expanse of fabric. However, due to the soft nature of the fibers I knew that embroidery directly on a pashmina would be a challenge. I experimented with embroidering on fabric blocks and bands instead of directly on the pashmina. I found that the finished look is neat and attractive on both the top and bottom side.
Traditionally, a pashmina refers to a shawl woven from a special fiber. Today it is commonly used as a generic term for a soft wrap. These plain wraps available in many stores and the quality can vary greatly. For my Florals and Ribbons wrap I opted for a 2-ply Pashmina/Silk Wrap purchased from www.thepashminastore.com. If you are looking for a pashmina that will last, and one that is worthy of the time and effort of added embroidery I highly recommend this type, believing it is far superior to those found in discount stores. You’ll find that the weight of this 2ply wrap is ideal for the added embroidered bands.
My ivory wrap features synthetic crepe back satin as the background for the embroidery designs with silk ribbon bordering the designs. Adding ribbons to frame the embroidery really sets off the colors featured in the embroidery designs. Just as you will find a variety of wraps, you will find a variety of ribbons. If you have never sewn with silk ribbons you are in for a treat. They are soft and smooth and not as expensive as you may think. Admittedly, this type of ribbon is not generally found at the local chain fabric store. I found a great selection available online from Cam Creations. You may want to order a sample card for a close up look at real silk satin ribbon swatches.
Framing embroidery designs with ribbons has become a favorite technique of mine. My book details step by step instructions for embellishing a total of three plain pashminas with beautiful embroidered bands of fabric. Here are a few more tips and ideas for pairing ribbons with embroidery designs on a plain pashmina.
• Select your ribbon first and then plan the embroidery design colors around your ribbon colors. Ribbon colors are limited when compared to the availability of thread colors. Shop with your ribbon in hand and match your thread as closely as possible.
• I usually use machine embroidery thread in the top and bobbin for sewing the ribbon. If you are torn between choosing thread slightly lighter or slightly darker than your ribbon, go for the darker shade.
• Match the laundering requirements of your fabric (pashmina) and your trims, making sure they are compatible.
• I recommend a fine, sharp sewing machine needle for sewing the ribbon in place. I usually use a size 10 Schmetz Microtex needle.
• As always, it’s a good idea to test your embroidery design on a remnant of fabric first. Experiment with different layouts for the combination of ribbons and embroidered sections of fabric. I like to pin my embroidered sections to the wrap and try it on before I commit to stitching them in place. It is always easier to unpin than it is to "unstitch.”
• Select your ribbon first and then plan the embroidery design colors around your ribbon colors. Ribbon colors are limited when compared to the availability of thread colors. Shop with your ribbon in hand and match your thread as closely as possible.
• I usually use machine embroidery thread in the top and bobbin for sewing the ribbon. If you are torn between choosing thread slightly lighter or slightly darker than your ribbon, go for the darker shade.
• Match the laundering requirements of your fabric (pashmina) and your trims, making sure they are compatible.
• I recommend a fine, sharp sewing machine needle for sewing the ribbon in place. I usually use a size 10 Schmetz Microtex needle.
• As always, it’s a good idea to test your embroidery design on a remnant of fabric first. Experiment with different layouts for the combination of ribbons and embroidered sections of fabric. I like to pin my embroidered sections to the wrap and try it on before I commit to stitching them in place. It is always easier to unpin than it is to "unstitch.”
Think about all your friends and family that would enjoy a wrap like this for a special present. I stockpile pretty pashminas so I am never at a loss for a quick gift or a wardrobe update for myself. Then, I just boot up my embroidery machine and prepare to turn blank into beautiful!
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