Iris Stitch
Iris Stich
- Use 7mm (4") silk or organza ribbon.
- Cut your working ribbon about 12-14" long.
- Obviously you will need a wide eye needle.
- Thread your needle and, to secure it, pierce the ribbon about 1/2" from the end and pull the needle through. This technique is used to prevent some of the bulk that this type of embroidery creates.
- Avoid dragging your ribbon on the back of your fabric as the width of ribbon will allow it to show through your design.
- To end your stitch, tie a slip knot on the back side of the fabric.
- As shown in the video, the Iris stitch is done with Detached Chain/Buttonhole and Puffed Ribbon stitches. You can also use the French Knot, Lazy Daisy and Stem/Straight stitches to create your Irises.
- Don't pull your ribbon too tight or you will lose the puffy effect.
- Work with variegated ribbon for even more glamour.
- Experiment with various widths of ribbons after you get the hang of working with the 4".
- Go free form by tacking down flat, folded or puffed ribbon throughout your design.
- Check that your ribbon is colorfast or wash it prior to stitching.