Volumetric embroidery for beginners step by step. Master class on bulk embroidery for beginners

Volumetric embroidery originated in the Middle Ages, and not in one country, but in many. In England, satin stitch embroidery with overlays was used, in Italy convex printed ornaments were popular, in Brazil they used the technique of weaving lace to embroider three-dimensional flowers, and France is still famous for its knotted embroidery technique.. Today, craftswomen combine all these techniques in one embroidery and create relief, almost sculptural images using threads, ribbons, beads and sequins.

Features of the technique of such embroidery

To create relief embroidery you will need a lot of different materials for needlework:

1. Threads for embroidery:


2. Additional elements for embroidery:


3. Fabric, clothing, furniture and decor- this is something on which you can perform bulk embroidery.

4. Sketch or embroidery pattern.

5. Embroidery needles, scissors, ruler, marker, hoop or —embroidery machine—.

For such embroidery today many different techniques are used, which allow you to embody any creative ideas:


Ideas for such embroidery with patterns

If you have not yet mastered the listed types of techniques, then we suggest you try yourself in each of them and combine your skills in creating relief embroidery.

  • Use this floral sketch and embroider all the petals with a stitch. After cutting them out with thin sharp scissors, sew them to the canvas, as shown in the diagram, and you will get a great flower miniature.

  • Here's another idea for a three-dimensional picture with a floral theme. These wonderful bells look like they are alive, and such a miniature can become not only a decoration for your interior, but also a great gift. Please note that floss threads were used for this and the previous work.

  • In the same way, you can embroider a chic rose. The stem and part of the leaves are embroidered with satin stitch, and the flower petals and one green leaf are made voluminous using the English technique, as shown in the photo. A flower is formed from the prepared petals, sewing on one each element.

  • Making a rose from a thin ribbon is very simple. Stitch along the edge. Then, pulling the thread and forming a flower, fasten the base of the flower by sewing it with a thread. Embroider the stem and leaves with a regular stitch, and sew the flowers from the ribbon in the right places according to the picture.

  • This is another option for creating a rose from a ribbon for bulk embroidery. Use this detailed step-by-step instruction, and you will succeed.

  • Thanks to this simple pattern, you can embroider a beautiful chrysanthemum. Please note that the ribbons should be thin satin, and choose a needle with an oblong eye.





  • This step-by-step diagram will allow you to master the French knot technique, which is very often used in bulk embroidery.

Video with the lessons of the master class of such embroidery for beginners

  • Twelve to create a three-dimensional ornament or picture.

  • Video on how to make volumetric embroidery from fine yarn on a knitted hat.

  • A master class for beginners on embroidering volumetric flowers with satin stitch.

  • A master class that will teach you the basic principles of three-dimensional satin stitch embroidery.

  • Video with a master class on creating volumetric beadwork.

Today, relief drawings and ornaments are made and, but the joy of creativity will give you much more emotions from both the product itself and the embroidery process. Tell us in the comments what embroidery techniques you use to create three-dimensional pictures and what you have already done with this technique.

Free embroidery with a twisted woolen thread is wool embroidery. Volumetric embroidery is an old type of needlework. Today it is a very popular type among needlewomen. And for good reason, because the use of this type of art allows you to see the finished work in the form of a living picture, thanks to special seams from various threads and ribbons. When creating any product, woolen threads can be combined with cotton, silk, as well as beads and other types of jewelry.

The beginning of embroidery with woolen thread

First you need to choose a suitable woolen thread for a particular product. To embroider on canvas, you need a thread with a certain size, for embroidering canopies, bags, shoes - with a different size.

The thread is selected in two or three strands. The needle is of medium length, rather thick, with a long eye and a pointed tip.

The base is tucked into the hoop, hands are free. If the seam should be thick, use a two-layer woolen thread, if thin, then a single layer. When embroidering, it is desirable to use a thread no more than thirty-five centimeters. This is necessary so that the stitches look neat, the yarn does not wear out and does not interfere with the labor process.

When working on embroidery with wool, be sure to use wax or conditioner. Their use will allow to compact the thread and avoid twisting and delamination of the fibers.

Technique of volumetric embroidery with woolen thread

The technique is simple and interesting. The variety of types of seams allows you to create wonderful compositions. It is also important to be able to choose the right coat color. Properly selected shades and the use of unusual artistic embroidery can create a wonderful mood and plunge into the world of magic.

The background is done with stalked, tambour stitches or satin stitch. An interesting combination can be obtained by threading two threads of different shades into the needle. Embroidery with a woolen thread looks very attractive when the pattern itself is filled with one type of seam, and the edging with another.

Volumetric embroidery with satin stitch can decorate the interior of the house. Thanks to her, plants, trees and animals are realistic.

A feature of volumetric embroidery is that it is impossible to make a mistake here. Even if something is not done correctly, it can be corrected without harm to the product. On the contrary, it can become much more beautiful and original.

The wrong side is not visible with volumetric embroidery. Therefore, it is enough to cut off the excess thread at the end of the work. But it is necessary to observe the accuracy of those parts of the pattern that are not embroidered.

Types of seams

There are several types of seams:

  • Contour. These include looped, stalked, tambour, split, coral, "forward - back needle", pearl, false seams.
  • Filling translucent. This is a straight stitch, cobweb, ermine cross, arrows, flies, dots, worms, grains.
  • Filling solid. This is an artistic surface, a goat, bricks.

Cross stitch technology

Craftswomen have always been very fond of cross-stitching. It allows you to get exquisite and unique products. It works especially well with silk, viscose and woolen threads.

Cross-stitching with woolen threads looks simply gorgeous. With its help, you can embroider various pillows, children's clothes, shoes, towels and more. Patterns can be found in magazines, books, or printed on a computer.

Cross-stitching has a positive effect on a person. Finger motility develops, state of mind stabilizes, nervous stress is relieved.

Anyone can learn to cross stitch. The most important thing is to be able to make beautiful neat stitches. The basic rule of cross stitch is to embroider strictly in a certain direction: first the lower stitches are made, then the upper ones.

Technology of embroidery on knitted fabric

Embroidery on knitwear with woolen threads is a rather complicated, but at the same time interesting process. From an ordinary thing you can get an original and unique. If ordinary embroidery is done with a hoop, then they are not used here. Knitted fabric tends to stretch along the length, so you can not pull the product in all directions and tighten the threads. It is advisable to use a lining under the knitwear to prevent the material from shrinking.

A feature of embroidery on knitted fabric is that you can improvise here.

First transfer the drawing to tracing paper, and from it already to knitted fabric. The pattern should be small.

When creating decorative seams, it is not necessary to strengthen knitwear. The seam occupies a small area, which leads to the fact that the material does not shrink.

Successfully decorate knitted material with flowers, leaves, embroidery with woolen threads will help. Flowers on knitwear can be made using. They turn out to be quite voluminous and beautiful. The petals are embroidered with a “loop with an attachment”, the centers of the flowers are embroidered with a knotted seam. You can add cabochons, beads, pebbles, beads and so on.

On knitwear, embroidery with satin stitch, stalk and chain stitches is harmoniously obtained.

Embroidery on clothes

Embroidery with woolen threads on clothes has always been very popular among craftswomen. This was considered not only a beautiful type of needlework, but also had a ritual character. Certain patterns, semantic drawings, according to the embroiderers, served as a talisman from evil spirits, from evil people, from everything negative. Some designs were to bring good luck and wealth to the home of the wearer.

Embroidery with woolen threads is successfully obtained on knitted clothes: on dresses, children's things, and so on. Usually used or cross.

To prevent clothes from deforming during the embroidery process, a “loop” seam is used. It is used in places where complex ornaments are embroidered. The height of the loop matches the structure of the knitted product, which creates the effect of "knitting".

Chain stitch is ideal for stocking stitch garments.

Created using various techniques and materials, magnificent works are akin to real works of art. Admiring such work, it may involuntarily seem that only a real and very sophisticated master can create it. But in fact, it turns out that even beginners can do a variety of volumetric embroidery techniques. Everything is much simpler than it seems at first glance.

Like any kind of exquisite applied art, this needlework has its own rich pedigree. It appeared in England in the 17th century, and since then not only has not lost its reputation as original and original, but has also gained new popularity. With its help, "piece" interior items and accessories are created, this stylish technique is increasingly used today by world first-rate designers for the exclusive decoration of handmade branded clothing.

Volumetric embroidery technique: first stitches

In order to master the basics of technology, it is enough to confidently hold an embroidery needle in your hands. A variety of materials can be used for work - from beads to ribbons and various types of threads, but the technique is based on only four absolutely simple types of seam: "forward" and "backward" needle, "stitch" and "overlock".

It is these techniques, repeated in various combinations, that form special stitches with the intriguing names "Antwerp", "French" or "Rococo". The technique itself is really simple, the maximum that you have to master additionally is the methods of winding threads or ribbons when creating a stitch and weaving knots, as well as special ways of “laying out” beads - integral components of effective work.

It’s worth starting with light diagrams and drawings with clear, fairly large and well-read contours and sensible detailed instructions. Technique does not set any strict rules; it is not without reason that it is called “free”. If you can’t get the seam indicated in the description, feel free to change it to the one that you are fluent in, the result will only benefit from this.

Of course, you will need a canvas or a woven base, which should be tightly fixed in the hoop, this will add convenience to work. In addition, you can visually see the entire process. Since the creation of work requires jewelry precision, it is worthwhile to provide good lighting for the place where you will embroider.

But everything, the main thing is the selection of materials. Muline, wool, beads, ribbons... any of them will achieve a great effect. There are no strict rules here either, the use and combination of different source materials will only enrich the work.

The main techniques of volumetric embroidery on the video are here:

Volumetric embroidery with threads - everything is very simple

Threads are a basic level that you should master to perfection before you start working with more complex materials. First you need to figure out what kind of threads are needed for work. Both the process itself and the final result depend on this.

You can use any thread, only your personal taste and plan for future work can limit your choice.

Silk and cotton floss, iris, yarns, both natural and synthetic, as well as threads with various additional effects, for example, metallized - the range of raw materials is almost unlimited. There are several manufacturers of threads to choose from, both European and Russian, with an excellent reputation earned over many years of work.

Embossed stalk seam:

Woolen threads are considered canonical and best for mastering the basics of volumetric embroidery, especially those twisted in two or three additions. The so-called "roving", which is often used for knitting, is not entirely suitable for this technique. Due to the softness and plasticity of wool fibers, it is easier with them to both master basic stitches and improve your own skills. The main techniques that are used in the work - winding the thread and weaving knots in complex seams with wool fibers are obtained flawlessly. In addition, they give a "quick result", it becomes easier to evaluate the volume and color combinations in the process of work.

No less important is the basis for future work. The technique does not require special fabrics - you can embroider on the basis of any density and structure: from cloth to organza and even natural silk. But for the first experiments, it is better to choose fabrics that hold their shape well with a clear visible weave, for example, linen canvas.

Transferring the pattern to the fabric, or taking a ready-made scheme, choosing the color palette of threads for bulk embroidery and stocking up on a bit of patience to start - this is almost all that is needed to get creative.

French knot in the photo:

Volumetric satin stitch embroidery: affordable exclusive

This technique allows you to create real art objects, it looks especially great when reproducing floral and plant motifs. With its help, three-dimensional compositions are created, which are considered the pinnacle of craftsmanship in needlework.

In order to become the author of a real masterpiece, it is enough to master the technique of satin stitch - one of the simplest, basic techniques in needlework. To work, in addition to the fabric canvas, hoop, thread, needle and scissors, you will need a very thin wire, which will serve as a kind of contour for a bulk product. The wire is bent into the shape of a flower petal, such as a pansy or a rose, and attached to the canvas with a few stitches. And then fill with satin stitches in the colors that are chosen for the design. The secret of authenticity lies in conveying all the color nuances as accurately as possible with the help of threads.

After the petal is embroidered, the wire contour is additionally covered with a dense looped seam and carefully cut out of the base. As a result, you will have an embroidered petal in your hands, which you can give any shape. Having embroidered the number of details necessary to create a flower, it is assembled by carefully fixing the “tails” of the wire contours from the inside of the base. This is how elegant flower arrangements are created, which are used not only for original interior solutions, but also for finishing accessories.

Floral compositions in the technique of volume embroidery with stitch and their photos

Volumetric satin stitch embroidery is a rare technique that few people own. And the point is not even in the complexity of execution, it is quite simple, but in its non-replication.

The more interesting it is to master exclusive skills and become the creator of unique works.

Volumetric cross-stitch - a fresh look at traditions

"Cross", as embroiderers lovingly call it, occupies a special place in volumetric technique. With its help, three-dimensional products are created, original and at the same time exquisite: from sachets, watches and boxes to rare toys. Using this technique, you can create an exclusive dollhouse and even a whole toy village.

The “picture”, which will become the basis, is first embroidered on canvas or fabric. One has only to take into account the allowances along its edges, since the finished embroidery will need to be additionally tightly fixed on a plastic canvas, which will become a kind of frame for the finished work. Ready-made embroidered "panels" are assembled by hand with butt stitches, so you can create any, even the most bizarre three-dimensional objects.

A variety of materials are used in this needlework technique, but silk and viscose threads, as well as bulky wool yarn, look the most advantageous. The simplest stitches - cross, half-cross, twisted and French knots look very impressive in this design. You need to start work from the center of the composition, so you can avoid mistakes and distortions at the edges.

Volumetric cross-stitch is a traditional European technique for creating handmade gifts on the eve of Christmas holidays or family celebrations. Such things are of particular value and often become family mascots. One has only to try, and you will discover a new personal page in needlework.

Secrets of volume embroidery with beads

Here you should immediately forget about the rules adopted in the classical techniques of working with this material. Usually it is selected according to the size of the canvas sections - small and medium size at the rate of one bead per one "square" of the base. To create a voluminous work, you need to choose larger beads, and the size of the "cells" of the canvas - smaller.

As usual, the beads are attached to the base with an inclination to one side with the usual half-cross stitch - this is a proven and most reliable way. But in bulk embroidery, the beads are laid out on the canvas not smoothly, but in relief, due to the high density of placement, creating an original texture. Thanks to the structure of the material, the play of its color combinations and the reflection of light, a real 3-D effect is created in the finished work.

Even if you are confident with beads and have experience working with them, when starting to work in the technique of volumetric beadwork, you should first turn to simple graphic, well-drawn ready-made patterns. As in any work with beads, you should carefully select the material and color scheme. The most impressive is the work, designed in 5-6 colors, and beads, and any embroiderer knows about it, it is better to choose from the assortment of one manufacturer.

How to create three-dimensional embroidery with ribbons

This is perhaps the most effective and fastest way to create original embroidered textures. Various flower arrangements made in this technique look especially good. They can decorate a wall panel or a bedspread, but this technique looks no less interesting in the decoration of clothes and stylish accessories.

To work, you will need a sharp needle with an elongated eye, it will allow you to easily insert the tape into the canvas and at the same time eliminate the possibility of damaging it. For work, you can use any fabric that combines elasticity and strength in its qualities. The beauty of the work largely depends on the combination of colors of the base and ribbons - this nuance should be considered in advance.

But here's what you should pay special attention to - the choice of material from which the tapes are made. Fine and delicate work can be created using silk ribbons - they are elastic, soft and at the same time easily and reliably take the desired shape. No less interesting effects are given by the use of any other materials, from satin and organza to velvet. With corrugated or sectional colored tapes, the most original works are easily created. Experienced craftswomen advise not to be limited to working with ribbons of one type, but to use several types at once when creating unique patterns.

Volume embroidery today is experiencing a real boom in popularity. It is interesting because it does not require any serious needlework skills, but at the same time it provides scope for creative imagination and the opportunity to create genuine works of applied art.

The name "volumetric embroidery" speaks for itself. The main difference between the works performed in this technique is that, thanks to the use of special techniques and various textured materials, an incredible effect can be achieved. The picture, made using elements of three-dimensional embroidery, looks especially realistic and will decorate any interior.

But due to what is this amazing volumetric effect achieved? The secret of volumetric embroidery is the use of several elements embroidered with satin stitch, connected to each other or superimposed on each other in a certain way, and then fixed to the fabric. Elements can be embroidered in various techniques, which makes each work truly unique..

This type of needlework is popular not only among “experienced” craftswomen who have a sufficient amount of experience in performing a variety of hand stitches, but also among beginner needlewomen who have only recently mastered the basic types of seams.

For the manufacture of products in this unusual technique, a wide variety of types of seams are used., which are made with cotton, silk or woolen threads, and beads, beads and ribbons can act as decorations. There are no restrictions when choosing a plot, except for the imagination of the needlewoman.

Below you will find step by step guide, which will be useful for needlewomen who begin to study the technique of volumetric embroidery.

So, if you want to master 3D satin stitch embroidery, our master class will help you in that. First you need to make sure that you have all the necessary materials. Let's consider them in more detail.

  1. The foundation. The base fabric should be quite dense, with a clearly defined weave of threads, since threads that differ in quality and thickness can be used in the work. A good base can be linen, gunny, denim, as well as plastic canvas.
  2. threads. The composition (cotton, silk, wool) and the thickness of the threads may vary, however, you need to make sure that they do not shed, as this can ruin the finished work. If you have doubts about the quality of your threads, we recommend checking the dye fastness before using them in your work.
  3. Decorative elements. For decoration, beads, beads and rhinestones of various diameters, as well as ribbons of different widths, can be used.
  4. Wire. A thin wire is required to stiffen the embroidered elements.
  5. Pencil and pattern details. Needed to transfer embroidery elements to the base. Disappearing or water soluble markers can also be used. Patterns can be drawn independently, or you can use ready-made schemes.
  6. Needles. When embroidering, you will need needles with different eye diameters - suitable for embroidery with beads and beads - and different lengths (4–5 cm).
  7. Scissors for needlework. The scissors should be small and rather sharp, as with their help it will be necessary to cut the finished elements as close as possible to the border of the embroidery.
  8. Frame/hoop. While embroidering elements, the fabric must be evenly stretched, for this you can use wooden or plastic hoops of different diameters, as well as tapestry frames or ku-snaps.

Main types of seams

It's time familiarize yourself with the basic seams used in bulk embroidery.

  1. "Forward needle" or basting stitch. Represents a dotted line of stitches. The seam is performed by alternately bringing the needle first to the front and then to the wrong side of the work. The stitch length is approximately 5 mm. The stitches are placed at a distance slightly less than or equal to the length of the stitch itself.
  2. "Lace". It is performed similarly to the “needle forward” seam with an additional pass of the needle through each stitch.
  3. "Back the needle" or "backstitch". It looks like a solid line of stitches. To perform this seam, it is necessary to bring the needle to the front side, and insert it to the right at a distance equal to the stitch size. Then we bring the needle to the left side of the first puncture, keeping the same distance. Subsequent stitches are made by inserting the needle where the previous stitch ends. A row of stitches will be sewn from right to left, even though they are laid in the opposite direction.
  4. Stem seam. Same slant stitches. When performing this seam, it is necessary to direct the point of the needle towards yourself, and lay the stitches in the opposite direction. The next stitch starts from the center of the previous one. A seam may look different depending on the length of the stitch itself, as well as the degree of its inclination.
  5. Looped seam. This stitch has many varieties and is used both for overcasting embroidered elements and for embroidering elements such as flowers or leaves. To perform this seam, you need to bring the needle to the front side of the warp, form a loop of thread and pass the needle through it after completing the next stitch.

There are other types of seams, many of which are based on those above. However, we recommend that beginner needlewomen start working with the use of these particular seams, since they are distinguished by their simplicity in execution, in addition, they are quite durable and do not tighten the base. In the technique of embroidery "satin stitch" the most beautiful products are obtained. Having mastered the basic techniques and techniques of satin stitch embroidery, any needlewoman, regardless of experience, will be able to depict the intended plot.

Completing of the work

So, let's move on to the main part of our master class.

The execution of the work consists of several stages. First, all the necessary elements are embroidered separately, then a thin wire is sewn along the contour, after which the parts are cut out and connected together in such a way that a single composition is obtained. Let's consider each step in more detail.

Step 0

Choose the pattern you like for embroidery, make patterns of individual parts and select the necessary materials. Pay attention to the compatibility of fabric and threads with each other. For example, cotton floss is best embroidered on cotton fabric, and satin can be a good basis for silk threads. Here are some simple patterns that are great for beginners.

Step 1

Attach your chosen base to your hoop or frame. Attach the element template to the fabric with pins, circle it with a pencil or marker, then remove the template. Start making the first stitches with a “needle forward” seam along the line marking the borders of the pattern. Fill the embroidery element with parallel stitches of different lengths. More volume can be achieved by using several shades of threads in the work. By making transitions from dark to light and vice versa, you will make your work more interesting and original.

Step 2

Bend the wire so that it follows the contours of the embroidered part, and sew it to the wrong side. Leave the ends of the wire a few centimeters long twisted together. Sew the edges of the part along the contour with a buttonhole seam.

Step 3

Cut out the embroidered element along the outline. Be careful not to damage the borders of the part.

Step 4

If you want to decorate your work, you can sheathe the cut-out part with beads or beads. To do this, several beads are strung on a thread and a stitch is made around the contour of the embroidered part.

Step 5

We do the above actions with each element of the work. When all the details are ready, they must be assembled in accordance with your taste or with the scheme you have chosen as a sample. The assembly of parts is carried out using the ends of the wire left during the second step of the master class. You can give your elements the desired shape, which will be maintained with a wire frame and will allow you to present your work in the most favorable light.

Congratulations! Your product is ready!

The last step of our master class - come up with a suitable and original application for your work. Volumetric satin stitch embroidery is often used not only in the interior, but also as elements of jewelry, such as, for example, brooches that can be pinned to a scarf, hat, coat or pullover.

A few words about how to care for your product.

Don't forget to dust your work regularly, remember that it is strictly forbidden to wash it. It is not recommended to expose the product to long-term exposure to sunlight.

Create and bring to life your most daring ideas and fantasies with the help of a wonderful and unusual technique of three-dimensional satin stitch embroidery!

Loved by many, cross-stitch with woolen threads, the sets of which are offered in the widest assortment, will allow you not only to get an amazingly beautiful picture, but also a new entertaining hobby. There are almost never any difficulties here! Provided that the needlewoman really wants and tries with all her might to succeed!

  • In case of poor-quality application, the drawing may be somewhat distorted.

In order not to get into trouble with the picture, it is better not to save money and immediately purchase high-quality material. Let it cost a little more, but the master will definitely get the set from which he will not be ashamed to make a finished complete picture.

What can be embroidered

Long gone are the days when embroidery was used only as paintings. Today it has actively moved into all spheres of human life.

In particular, you can see handmade jewelry in the form of:

  • Pillows;

You will find unusual and beautiful options for embroidering pillows in our material:.

  • Interior elements;
  • clothes;
  • Decorative elements used in different spheres of human life.

For those who are not yet confident in their abilities and are afraid of spoiling a quality item, it is recommended to start embroidering on a separate canvas. If everything went well.

In the future, embroidery can simply be repeated. Or, as an option, just carefully sew to the main product and pull the canvas along the threads.

A modern person can learn anything, having in his arsenal a huge number of training video lessons. If possible, it is better to seek help from a professional craftswoman who will show all the processes clearly.

Which thread to use: woolen or regular

The issue of the quality of threads in the design of embroidery is particularly acute. In the end, you want to get a truly masterpiece picture, which you will not be ashamed to give or just to lead on your wall. But which set should I buy? With cotton or woolen threads? The first option is a classic, already time-tested. But woolen threads are a dark horse.

However, its use has the following advantages:

  • The picture is voluminous;
  • The product looks fluffy;
  • Wool is durable, does not fade over time;
  • It is much easier to manage with woolen threads.

Simple cross-stitch with woolen threads: sets (video)

Embroidery with woolen threads is a simple and pleasant way to spend your leisure time and give yourself a good mood. You should not initially set yourself complex tasks, the implementation of which will take a lot of time. It is better to master the art of embroidery gradually, moving from simple to complex. Then the work will surely go with a bang!