Thread
Couching is the process of stitching a thread or yarn onto a fabric in decorative or ornamental patterns or figures. It’s a useful tool that gives a unique touch and texture to the fabric. Many different types of design can be created, such as swirls and loops, but the basic technique of couching is relatively simple. With the help of a sewing machine and a few other tools, anyone can do couching on their sewing projects.
Materials
Before beginning the couching process, it’s important to gather the right materials. Besides a sewing machine and a piece of fabric, you’ll need embroidery thread, a couching foot for your sewing machine, and a couching needle. The couching foot is designed to hold the thread in place as it passes through the needle. The couching needle has a small eye and will be helpful in pulling the thread through the fabric. If you don’t have the special foot, you can buy a universal low shank couching foot and adjust it to fit your machine.
Preparing the Thread
Couching requires a bit of preparation of the thread before beginning. It’s important to make sure your thread is not too thick for your sewing machine. You can test this by running a bit of thread through your machine and making sure it passes easily through the needle. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to adjust the tension on your machine accordingly.
Next, it’s necessary to secure the ends of the thread so that it doesn’t unravel. You can do this by pinning the thread to the fabric or using a knot. Once the end is secured, it’s ready for couching.
Couching the Fabric
Couching requires a very steady hand and some practice. Begin by threading your needle with the couching thread. When your needle is threaded, hold it at a 45 degree angle to the fabric and create a small stitch at the beginning of the couching pattern.
Next, use the couching needle to draw the thread through each stitch. Make sure not to pull too tight, as that can make the fabric look uneven. Once the fabric has been couched, the thread should be secured at the end of the line with a knot or pin.
Advice from an Expert
Taking classes from a sewing expert can be immensely helpful. Brook Bemont from All Brite Sewing & Design shared her advice on couching: “When I’m teaching a class on couching on a sewing machine, I like to use contrasting colors for the thread. This creates a more interesting and visually appealing design. As for the sewing machine itself, make sure the tension is just right. Too tight, and the thread won’t move properly. Too loose, and the stitching won’t hold. Experimenting with different tension settings can be especially helpful.”
Finishing Touches
The last step is to finish off the fabric with a few decorative touches. If desired, you can add a loop around the couched threads or even add a few beads. You can also stitch a few textured stitches or lines around the couching pattern.
Different Patterns and Techniques
Couching is extremely versatile, and the possibilities are endless. You can create bold lines or swirls, or you can use tiny, delicate stitches or a combination of the two. You can even combine couching with other stitches, such as applique and cross-stitching, for a truly unique design.
Benefits of Couching
Aside from its decorative uses, couching also has practical benefits. It can be used to create lines that can strengthen and reinforce the fabric, as well as to add texture and dimension to the fabric.
Varieties of Threads to Use
When it comes to couching, the type of thread used can make a huge difference. Most of the time, embroidery threads are used, such as rayon or cotton threads. But you can also use a variety of other threads, such as wool, ribbon, or braid. You can even use metallic threads to give your fabric a unique touch.
Embellishing with Couched Yarns
Additionally, you can use other materials to embellish your fabric, such as couched yarns. Yarns come in many different weights and textures and can easily be couched onto the fabric. This can create a unique texture and dimension to the fabric, as well as add a special twist to your design.
Using Speciality Threads
For a truly unique look, you can even use speciality threads, such as beads or glitter threads. These threads can be couched onto the fabric for a one-of-a-kind design.
Creating Texture with Beads
Beads can also be used for creating texture. You can use small beads to create tiny loops and swirls. The beads can be couched onto the fabric and can be used to create a three-dimensional effect.
Combination of Stitches
Couching can also be combined with other stitches, such as applique and cross-stitching. This can create a unique design and add depth and texture to the fabric.
Couching Large Designs
When it comes to large designs, couching can be a great way to create a full and elaborate pattern. By using multiple couching techniques, you can create an intricate and beautiful design.
Creating Different Weaves
Finally, couching can be used to create different weaves, such as diagonal seals and cable stitches. This can be a great way to add texture and dimension to the fabric.
