Preparing for machine embroidery…As previously noted, one of the most important strategic decisions during the preparatory period before the commencement of each machine embroidery project revolves around the combination of any hand embroidery stitches with machine embroidery stitches. The artist, designer or craftsperson must resolve issues associated with the development of textures, linear elements and shape, as well as tonal changes and the placement of blocks of colour. Should the hand stitches be created as a foundation stage, with machine embroidery to follow? Should the machine embroidery form the base of the work, with hand stitching to follow? Should several different phases of hand embroidery and machine embroidery follow each other, with layers of different hand and machine embroidery stitches incorporated over a period of time?
