Knot dampening

Jun 15, 2008 9 Replies

The Brazilian embroidery project kit and Chris' extra instruction packet have arrived. As soon as I recover from the trauma of learning to use my new appliances, I'm going to do some doodling.



She talks about dampening beginning and ending knots and steaming threads before use. What's a good way for a klutz to dampen a knot? I'm concerned that I'll make a mess with too much water.



She was kind enough to do the steaming for me but I don't know how she did it -- was each length steamed or was a whole skein steamed and then lengths cut?



I could call and ask what she meant but y'all are so knowledgeable


I really don't know. I was taught by two certified Brazilian teachers, one in Canada and one in Virginia. Neither one of them recommended steaming, freezing, or anything else. Including dampening the knot. Simply getting used to using the thread. Email Christine and ask her what she meant and how best to do it. She won't mind. Everyone has their own way.

Dianne

My EGA 'sisters' didn't know what she meant either, although one mimicked licking the thread. I'll call her 'soon.'

I have a feeling that's exactly what I'd do if dampening would make things easier. :~)

Dianne

I haven't tried the Brazilian embroidery. Does it differ that much? I know it has dimensional stitches, but are there differences in the tools and such? smiles, alicia in Hawaii

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I'm a rank beginner; someone else can chime in with more details. It's my understanding that one uses 'special' rayon thread as opposed to the strandable rayon thread sold in the big box stores. This thread has different thicknesses much like Kreinik braids and perle cotton. It's suggested that one uses milliner or straw needles for the bullions.

Although much designing is done for the specialty threads, they floss-type threads are also used. Visit

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for a quick look around to see all the numerous varieties used, including boucle, which is fun.Dianne

Oh wow...I thought it was just a difference in technique. I didn't realize that the threads were different as well. That's good to know before diving in head first. I really love the look of Brazilian Embroidery...maybe it's the thread that I am seeing that is appealing...hmmm. smiles, alicia in Hawaii

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Alicia , i hope nobody looks , i ahve done some Brazillian embroidery with the `wrong` threads , worked out fine mirjam

Hahaha...guess I'll just give it try then eh? smiles, alicia in Hawaii

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