Embroidery is a decorative art form that has been around for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt and China.
It includes stitching designs onto fabric using a needle and thread. It can be used to create beautiful and intricate designs on a variety of fabrics, including clothing, accessories, and home decor items.
One technique commonly used in embroidery is the knockdown stitch. So, what exactly is the embroidery knockdown stitch and how is it used in embroidery? Let’s take a closer look.
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Overview Of Embroidery Knockdown Stitch
The embroidery knockdown stitch is a technique used in machine embroidery to create a flat surface on which to embroider a design.
It is used to flatten the nap of the fabric before the actual embroidery is done, providing a smooth surface for the embroidery to be applied.
This is particularly useful when embroidering on fabrics that have a raised nap or pile, such as terry cloth or fleece.
The embroidery knockdown stitch is a dense, often satin stitch that is applied in the shape of the design being embroidered.
It is usually applied in a single color, which matches the color of the fabric and stitched over the area of the design, but not inside the actual design.
Why Do We Need Embroidery Knockdown Stitch?
The embroidery knockdown stitch is typically used when embroidering designs on fabrics with a lot of texture such as:
- Towels
- Fleece
- knitwear
These fabrics tend to have a lot of bumps, ridges, and other uneven surfaces that can make it difficult to create a crisp embroidery design.
So the embroidery knockdown stitch is used for several reasons:
- It provides a smooth surface on which to embroider a design.
- This is particularly useful when embroidering on fabrics that have a raised nap or pile, as the knockdown stitch flattens the nap, allowing the embroidery to be applied more efficiently.
- The embroidery knockdown stitch helps to prevent the fabric from shifting during the embroidery process.
- The embroidery knockdown stitch holds the fabric in place and prevents this from happening.
- By using a thread that matches the color of the fabric, the embroidery knockdown stitch creates a solid color background for the embroidery.
- This can be useful when embroidering on fabrics with a pattern or when the design itself is not solid.
Types Of Embroidery Knockdown Stitch
Several types of embroidery knockdown stitches can be used, depending on:
- Shape
- The type of fabric and the design is embroidered
1)On The Base Of The Shape
The common types of embroidery knockdown stitch on the base of shape are:
Straight Stitch
This type of knockdown stitch is used for straight or linear designs, such as letters or stripes.
It consists of rows of closely spaced straight stitches that run parallel to the direction of the design.
Zigzag Stitch
This type of knockdown stitch is used for designs with sharp angles or corners, such as triangles or diamonds.
It consists of rows of zigzag stitches that follow the shape of the design and helps to hold down any fabric edges that might otherwise stick up.
Spiral Stitch
This type of knockdown stitch is used for circular or curved designs, such as flowers or wreaths.
It consists of a spiral pattern of closely spaced stitches that gradually expand outwards from the center of the design.
(Go and check a complete tutorial guide to make and digitize flower embroidery designs)
Grid Stitch
It is used for designs with a lot of detail, such as intricate patterns or pictures, and consists of a grid pattern of closely spaced stitches.
It is also used to fill in the area to be embroidered and create a smooth and even surface.
2) On The Base Of Fabric And Design
Some of the most common types of embroidery knockdown stitches include:
Satin Stitch
This type of embroidery knockdown stitch is used for the lettering or other small details. This stitch is created by stitching closely spaced parallel lines over the embroidery area.
Therefore, it helps to create a smooth surface and prevent the fabric from shifting during the embroidery process.
Running Stitch
Another type of embroidery knockdown stitch is created by running a line of stitches along the edge of the embroidery area, which helps to flatten the fabric and lead to smooth results.
Fill Stitch
The fill stitch is a more complex type of embroidery knockdown stitch that is used to fill in larger areas of fabric.
This stitch involves stitching a dense pattern over the entire area where the embroidery will be placed, which helps to create a flat surface for the embroidery.
It can be stitched in the same color as the fabric or in a contrasting color, depending on the desired effect.
Stem Stitch
This embroidery knockdown stitch is used to create a rope-like texture on the fabric used for creating text or designs that require a more decorative touch.
Chain Stitch
It is used to create a raised texture on the fabric for creating 3D effects or for creating designs that stand out from the surface of the fabric.
How Can One Use Knockdown Stitch In Embroidery?
The knockdown stitch is an essential part of machine embroidery, and it is used in a variety of different ways. Here are a few examples of how the knockdown embroidery stitch can be used in embroidery:
Help To Create A Smooth Surface
As mentioned earlier, the embroidery knockdown stitch is used to create a smooth and even surface on fabrics.
This is important because if the design were stitched directly onto the fabric without a base layer, the stitches would sink into the pile and the design would not be visible.
By using the embroidery knockdown stitch, the pile is flattened, and the design can be stitched on top of it.
Hold Down The Fabric
If you are embroidering on a fabric that is slippery or stretchy, the knockdown stitch can help to stabilize it and prevent it from puckering during the embroidery process.
If you wish to carry out a swift embroidery operation, check out the suggestions to avoid puckering.
Improved Embroidery Quality
This technique helps to ensure that the embroidery stitches are even and consistent.
Moreover, help to improve the overall quality of the embroidery and make the design look more professional.
Help To Add Dimension
An embroidery knockdown stitch can be used to apply a dense layer of stitches in a specific region to provide an elevated or contoured look that adds interest and specificity to the design.
Enhancing The Color
You can add a subtle shading effect that gives the design more richness and texture by using thread that is just a little bit darker or lighter than the fabric.
Provide Stability
Because the knockdown stitch pushes down the fibers of the fabric, it creates a surface that the embroidery thread can adhere to more easily.
This can help to ensure that the embroidery design stays in place over time, even with regular wear and washing.
What Are The Tips For Using The Embroidery Knockdown Stitch?
If you are new to embroidery or are looking to improve your skills, here are a few tips for using the embroidery knockdown stitch:
Use The Right Stabilizer
When using the embroidery knockdown stitch, it is important to use the right stabilizer for your fabric.
A stabilizer is a material that is used to support the fabric during embroidery and prevent it from stretching or puckering.
There are many different types of stabilizers available, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for your fabric and your project.
Choose The Best Fabric
The knockdown stitch is most effective on fabrics with a raised texture, such as fleece or terry cloth.
If you’re not sure if a fabric will work well with the knockdown stitch, do a test stitch before starting your project.
Go With the Matching Thread
When creating the base layer for the knockdown stitch, use a thread that matches the fabric.
This will help the base layer blend in with the fabric and not interfere with the final embroidery design.
Plan Your Design
Before starting your project, plan out your embroidery design and where the knockdown stitch will be used.
This will help you avoid stitching unnecessary areas as well as saves your time.
Consider The Right Stitch
When stitching the embroidery design on top of the base layer, choose a stitch that complements the design and the fabric.
A satin stitch or fill stitch is often used, but you can experiment with different stitches to achieve other effects.
Test Your Stitch Density
The density of your knockdown stitch can affect the final quality of your embroidery.
Be sure to check your stitch density on a scrap piece of fabric before embroidering on your actual project.
Conclusion
In summary, the embroidery knockdown stitch is an essential technique that helps to create a smooth surface for embroidery on textured fabrics.
By using the appropriate type of knockdown stitch and by following the aforementioned tips, you can achieve high-quality results on a wide range of fabrics and designs.
Before starting your project, plan out your embroidery design and where the knockdown stitch will be used. This will help you avoid stitching unnecessary areas and save time.
On the base of shape:
- Straight stitch, zigzag stitch, spiral stitch, grid stitch
On the base of fabric and design:
- Satin stitch, fill stitch, stem stitch, running stitch, chain stitch, bean stitch
If you are embroidering on a fabric that is slippery or stretchy, the knockdown stitch can help to stabilize it and prevent it from shifting and puckering during the embroidery process.
- Choose right fabric
- Use right stabilizer
- Go with matching thread
- Plan your design
- Choose the right stitch
- Test the stitch density
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