Artistic Needlework 1909
Embroidery on net, an art quite neglected for a long period, is now regaining its popularity and lends itself to the most beautiful effects. Chemisettes and waists, bands and trimmings, in fact many charming effects may be obtained with comparatively little work and at a small cost. Most of the trimmings are worked on machine-made netting, which is far less expensive than the hand-made variety, and really preferable, as it has a very smooth and even surface. The net is obtainable in black, white and ecru, and most of the leading dry goods stores carry also various colors, at a very reasonable price. For the variety of embroidery described, a very narrow, flat silk braid is used, and in some cases the figures of the pattern are outlined with crochet or embroidery silk. The braid is worked in darning-stitch, passed under and over the bars of the squares, as in Illustration I.
In the small figures, the braid is passed over three or four squares, according to the pattern, in a manner resembling the flat or satin-stitch. The stitches must always be made with an upward motion, as this gives a better appearance to the work. To begin a new stitch, bring the needle down to a lower row. A tapestry needle with a dull round point is used. In large figures the braid is worked in darning stitches, passing the braid over and under every alternate bar, as in Illusration II. to obtain a neat effect, it is preferable to bring the braid back, leaving it loose, on the wrong side of the work, working the upper or right side always in the same direction. This has also the advantage of providing a sort of padding, which gives to the finished work a raised effect which makes it very attractive. The pattern should be drawn on heavy paper and the net basted over this paper.
To make the wheel: Make 12 chain. Join.
Antique Ad (left): Ladies Work Box 1892