Embroidered appliqué is an ancient practice, with evidence of its use in surviving artworks from as far back as the 12th century. It's been used throughout history in many different cultures, and has been used to add a colorful touch to clothing, accessories, and even furniture. Today, embroidery appliqués continue to be popular among both hobbyists and professionals alike.
In the simplest terms, an appliqué is a piece of fabric that is attached to a surface using iron-on or sew-on adhesive. This piece of fabric may be constructed of a single piece of fabric, or it may be made up of several pieces. Each type of appliqué will have its own unique characteristics, like color, texture, and design. The end result is generally decorative and often quite intricate.
Embroidered appliqué is created by taking the chosen fabric, such as cotton, wool, or silk, and sewing a series of tiny stitches around the edges. This creates a visible outline that makes the appliqué stand out from the background fabric and gives it a unique look. Embroidery artists may choose to stitch a single piece of fabric, which is then cut into desired shapes. Or, they may choose to stitch multiple pieces of fabric together to create a complex pattern.
Appliqués can be used to embellish garments and household items like pillows and curtains. For clothing, they can be applied to the pockets or collars, or even the entire front of a garment. Appliqués can also be added to bags, such as purses and totes, or furniture, like cushions and armchairs.
The colors and themes of an appliqué are limited only by imagination. Embroidered appliqués can feature a variety of colors, shapes, and motifs, and they can also be used to express a particular message. This makes them a popular choice for special occasions, like weddings and birthdays, as well as everyday wear.
Embroidered appliqués can be both simple and complex in their design and the application process usually requires skill and patience, but with the right supplies - like fabrics, needles, scissors, and adhesive - anyone can produce beautiful results and enjoy the beauty of appliqué art.