Goldwork embroidery: 7 mistakes to avoid
When you start goldwork embroidery, you often want to do things right from the start. However, the first attempts are not always satisfying, even with motivation and patience!
An ill-fitting hoop, embroidery scissors that don't cut cleanly, metallic threads that are difficult to manipulate, or a fabric that's too complex are all reasons to shy away from goldwork embroidery techniques.
Discover the mistakes to avoid and download our free guide to go further!
Which hoop to choose for goldwork embroidery?
A hoop must hold the fabric taut without loosening during work. If the fabric moves, stitches become uneven and the placement of metallic threads loses precision.
For beginners, wooden hoops are generally the most reliable. They offer a firmer and more stable tension, especially for long projects. Plastic models can be suitable for trials or small projects, but some tend to slip slightly or lose tension over time.
For more tips: download our free guide 🎁
What scissors to use for goldwork embroidery?
The threads used in goldwork embroidery (pur, jaseron, metallic threads) quickly dull classic blades.
If scissors are also used for paper or other fabrics, they lose precision and end up crushing the cuts.
Ideally, you should have a pair dedicated solely to goldwork embroidery, even a simple one. What matters is a thin, sharp blade, capable of cutting cleanly without crushing the threads.
A small pair of "precision scissors" or "fine straight scissors" is usually sufficient for beginners.
What needles to use in goldwork embroidery?
Needles are not interchangeable in goldwork embroidery.
A needle that is too thin blocks the passage of metallic threads; a needle that is too wide damages the tension of the work.
The most commonly used for beginners are:
- purling needles (often longer with an eye suitable for metallic threads)
- chenille needles (practical for certain couching threads)
The key is to choose a needle adapted to the type of thread used rather than trying to "force" it with a single versatile needle.
What is beeswax used for in goldwork embroidery?
Beeswax is used to prepare the thread before embroidering.
The couching thread is passed over it to make it more even and limit blockages. It also helps guide the thread through metallic elements like purl.
Specifically, it allows for:
- fewer knots
- a more "disciplined" thread
- smoother application
It's a quick small gesture that greatly changes the feel of the work.
How to store goldwork embroidery threads?
Metallic threads are sensitive to pressure and light.
If they are stored loosely or crushed, they can deform, which then shows in the embroidery (waves, irregularities, loss of luster).
To store them properly:
- keep them flat or rolled without tension
- avoid compressing them under other tools
- store them away from direct light
A simple compartmentalized box is perfectly sufficient to start with.
Which fabric to choose to start goldwork embroidery?
Not all fabrics react the same way to goldwork embroidery.
Fabrics that are too thin or unstable (like certain silks or organzas) can move in the hoop and complicate the first steps.
To learn more easily, the most suitable fabrics are:
- cotton
- linen
- regular weave fabrics
They offer good stability in the hoop and allow you to concentrate on the stitches rather than the material.
Starting goldwork embroidery with the right equipment
A large part of the difficulties in goldwork embroidery simply comes from the initial choice of materials. With adapted tools, the movements become more fluid, more precise, and more pleasant to learn.
🎁 Download the free goldwork embroidery guide
To go further, a complete guide brings together the essential basics for a good start:
- indispensable tools simply explained
- threads and materials to choose according to your skill level
- suitable fabrics for easy learning
- common mistakes to avoid from the start
