Invisible Couching - is it achievable?

Earlier this year I undertook a class with Jane Nicholas at Koala Convention held in Brisbane Australia.  Definitely should be on your "Things to do Before I Die List".

I have been in awe of Jane's work for quite a time, her incredible design and meticulous attention to detail.  I had read her books in detail and finally the earth, sun and the moon lined up and I enrolled in her class "Persian Tile". 

I have almost finished the piece and hope to have it completed over the Christmas break.

The thing I like about participating in classes is that you always learn something new.

When couching the majority of metal threads in this project, Jane used a clear nylon mono-filament, like a fine fishing line.  In this case we used Madeira Monofil No 60.

Check out the results:

The Jap thread wrapped around the gold beads on the outer border was couched using the monofil.  Can you see the couching stitches?  It was also used to couch the gilt passing thread around the petals of the pink peony bud.

The Jap on the inner border was couched with a fine metallic thread. Much more noticeable isn't it.

The monofil proved to be a strong, fine thread that was very forgiving if the couching stitches were a little uneven in size or distance apart.

HOWEVER, and there is usually a 'however', a size 12 crewel needle was used with the monofil.  To say threading a very fine invisible thread though the eye of a number 12 needle is character building is an understatement. To challenge you even further this thread is very slippery and slides out of the needle easily.  So the only solution is to secure the thread in the eye of the needle.  Kreinik have made a short video showing how this is done - it is the second tip on the video.

Ah, you thought this would make it easier didn't you.  Well it does when it comes to keeping the needle threaded but of course you have to get the two strands of folded thread through that tiny hole.

Tip for the Day - if you intend using this thread, here is my suggestion.  Before you start your stitching session, thread up 4 or 5 needles with the monofil while your eyes are still fresh and your frustration levels low.  You will maintain your sanity and progress with your project.

Comments

[Avis Withers]

Absolutely stunning! The tip about the monofilament is wonderful. I hope to do some goldwork someday.... Thank you for sharing your work.
Avis

[Missy Ann]

I'm blessed that at 35 I can still see to thread #12 needles. But I also recommend bees wax. It's makes the thread a little stiffer (which makes threading easier) and gives it just a touch of grip so it's not slippery.

Even unfinished your tile is stunning! I can hardly wait to see it completed.

[Gail Petersen]

I am so much enjoying your site! I recently attended the Country Bumpkin Beating Around The Bush Needlework Conference in Australia in October and had the opportunity to meet Jane Nicholas, who was teaching, and see her fabulous work close-up. I now love goldwork, having completed the Golden Pomegranate from the Inspirations Magazine and am enjoying your explanation of techniques and the tip on the monofilament. I look forward to all your future posts on this delightful area of embroidery! You do marvelous work!

[Gold n' Stitches]

Missy Ann I remember those days of easy threading ... Thank goodness for eye glasses and daylight globes. I use beeswax with the majority of my threads for couching when doing my goldwork. It is a marvel. However unfortunately the nylon thread doesn't succumb to gentle persuasion of beeswax!

[Gold n' Stitches]

Hello Gail and welcome to Gold n'Stitches. If you get a chance to attend one of Janes' classes I highly recommend it. She is a very attentive and patient teacher. She has the amazing ability to impart her vast knowledge to beginners and the more experienced in the one class so that they all gain the most from the class. I know the Golden Pomegranate you are referring to - a lovely piece. Don't forget to treat us with some pictures!

[red bottom]

Thanks, I'm going to have nightmares tonight.