Decorative work
Smocking, ribbon embroidery, beads and sequins, couching and shirring.
Smocking
An embroidery technique that gathers fabric so it can stretch. Before elastic it was common in cuffs and bodices.
6 guidesRibbon embroidery
Embroidery with silk ribbon instead of thread, usually with a large-eyed chenille needle, for flowers and leaves.
8 guidesBeading and sequins
Beadwork attaches beads to each other or sews them onto cloth; sequins are small, shiny disc-shaped ornaments.
6 guidesCouching
A thread or other material is laid on the surface of the fabric and held down with small stitches.
6 guidesShirring
Many rows of gathered stitching that shrink the fabric and add texture.
6 guides