Elevated
A raised effect occurs when stitches or padding project above the surface of the fabric. This gives a motif more relief and makes a detail more clearly visible.
Definition
Raised embroidery is a relief effect in which parts of the embroidery sit higher than the fabric. This can be created with a stitched underlayer, padding, thick thread or several layers of embroidery. Light falls differently on the raised section, giving a petal, letter or border more depth. The effect may be subtle or very pronounced, depending on how it is built up.
When to use it
Use raised embroidery when you want a detail to stand out, such as the centre of a flower, an animal’s eye, a monogram or a decorative border. It looks beautiful alongside flat stitches, as the difference in height is then clearer. Choose sturdy fabric and use the relief on a well-defined motif. A small amount of height is often enough for a lively result.
Common mistakes
Too much padding can make a motif stiff or lumpy. An uneven underlayer will also show through the top stitches. Do not pull the finishing stitches too tightly over the padding, as this removes the rounded shapes and can pull the fabric. Do not try to raise every element; a few accents give the effect calm and meaning.
Practical tips
First stitch a neat underlayer that remains slightly smaller than the final shape. Then cover it evenly with short, closely spaced stitches. Work in the same direction throughout for a calm surface. Test the height on a scrap and view it from the side as well. Use a hoop to keep the fabric stable so the padding stays in place.
