Circular
Circular beschrijft een rond of draaiend effect in embroidery. Het werkt mooi bij bloemen, sterren, wielen en speelse accenten.
Definition
In embroidery, circular describes a round, rotating or centre-based effect. Stitches may form a ring, radiate outwards or follow a spiral. The word describes the visual direction of the design, not one particular embroidery stitch. You can therefore create a circular effect with different stitches, as long as the movement around a centre remains recognisable.
When to use it
Use a circular effect for flower centres, suns, stars, wheels, wreaths or small ornaments. It is useful when a motif needs movement and focus. In an abstract design, a circular stitch direction can also provide a calm counterbalance to straight lines and angular blocks of colour.
Common mistakes
Pulling the stitches too tightly around a small centre can quickly make the fabric bulge or warp. An unclear centre point can make a circle look untidy. Also avoid using too many different stitch lengths without a plan; deviations show more quickly in a round shape than in a loose straight line.
Practical tips
First mark the centre point and, if desired, a light outer ring. Work in small, even steps around it and regularly check the distance from the centre. Start with a simple circle on a scrap of fabric and choose a stitch that suits the desired texture, such as running stitch for lightness or satin stitch for filling.
