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These are instructions on how to embroider the Free-Standing Bobbin Lace Square and make a "biscornu"-style 3D ornament.
The lace squares can be used as coasters, or you can assemble them into doilies, table runners and table toppers of different sizes.
To embroider this type of lace, please read our recommendations first.
Stabilizers: We recommend to use water-soluble mesh, such as Vilene. Vilene D0102 is a non woven dissolvable stabilizer which is imported into the US, is sold in large rolls and is sometimes packaged under different brand names. Some of these brand names are Fabri-Solvy by Sulky, Avalon Plus by Madeira, Wash-Away, and Aqua Magic.
Film-like water soluble stabilizers, such as Solvy by Sulky, Avalon by Madeira, Badge Master, are not suitable for Free-Standing Lace embroidery.
Threads: The thinner the thread, the finer the final product will be. Bobbin lace can be embroidered with polyester and cotton embroidery threads
Cotton thread gives bulk to the lace and makes it look hand-made.
Embroidery rayon thread is too soft, it does not keep its shape and very often its color fades under the influence of chemicals from the water-soluble mesh.
Embroidery polyester thread makes very fine web-like lace. Our ornament is embroidered with polyester thread.
To get two-sided embroidery use threads of the same color in the needle and in the bobbin.
Needles: We use size 80/12 embroidery needles with polyester and 80/12 metallic needles with cotton thread. Our experience shows that cotton thread used with metallic needles gives less lint. The needles should be sharp, so it's advisable to change them often.
Most Importantly: ALWAYS make a test stitch-out of the design and wash away the stabilizer. This helps you to select the threads, needles, stabilizers and settings of your machine correctly. DO NOT embroider several designs in one hoop.
To make the ornament as shown, you need to embroider the lace square twice.
Step One: Embroider the pattern on 2 layers of watersoluble mesh using polyester embroidery thread.
Rinse the mesh in lukewarm water. Slightly press the embroidery with the paper towel to remove extra water. Leave to air dry. Press.
Step Two: Place the squares as shown. Match the corner of the upper squre to the center of one of the sides of the second square.
Start to hand sew the sides of the squares together by the loops, using a whip stitch.
When sewing, simultaneously attach seed beads. This will highlight the seams and make the ornament more attractive.
When you finish connecting the both squares, do not cut the thread. Bead it with the remaining seed beads and fold it into a loop, attaching the end to the ornament.
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