Embroidery Couchings

A term used to denote the attachment of loose strands of material to a foundation by means of other working threads. Couching is distinct from Applique, which is a term usually applied to the attachment of solid pieces of material to a foundation. The chief kinds of Couching are: Plain, Basket, Battlement, Brick, Diagonal, Diamond, Floral, Geometrical, Tartan and Check Couchings.

(a) Plain - Strands of material are laid in rows and fastened by single stitches.

(b) Basket - Gives the effect of interlaced strands. Lay a foundation of cord or thick cotton to form a padding. At right angles arrange a covering of strands of silk, wool, etc. Fasten in uniform groups by means of upright stitches falling alternately between the lines of padding material.

(c) Battlement - Couching in the form of battlement outlines.

(d) Brick - Strands are placed in the form of brickwork.

(e) Diagonal - The strands are arranged diagonally and couched at right angles.

(f) Diamond - The strands are arranged to form a diamond pattern, and secured at the crossing points by a small stitch.

(g) Floral - Leaves, flowers, etc, may be couched in outline or as solids.

(h) Geometrical - Geometrical forms may also be couched in outline or as solids.

Stitches already worked may be couched by means of other stitches.

(a) shews Couched Herring-bone
(b) is Couched Basket stitch

The couching stitch should always be of a relieving shade, to be effective. Couchings may be worked in the form of tartans or checks. Strands of coloured silk or narrow ribbons may thus be couched according to the kind of pattern desired. The illustration represents rows and narrow ribbons so couched with dark silk.

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