Definition: Couching is used on some advanced Cross Stitch patterns. When couching a strand of floss, ribbon, or cording, the fiber is laid on top of the fabric and tacked down with tiny stitches.
In the diagram to the right, the thick yellow line represents the floss, ribbon, or cording to be couched. The small blue lines represent the tiny stitches used to hold it in place.
The couching may be done with a coordinating or contrasting color of floss, depending on the look desired.
Couching is a good technique to use for fragile fibers, especially metallics. Couching also allows stitchers to create curves and circles in a Cross Stitch design.
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In the diagram to the right, the thick yellow line represents the floss, ribbon, or cording to be couched. The small blue lines represent the tiny stitches used to hold it in place.
The couching may be done with a coordinating or contrasting color of floss, depending on the look desired.
Couching is a good technique to use for fragile fibers, especially metallics. Couching also allows stitchers to create curves and circles in a Cross Stitch design.
Got Cross Stitch questions? The members of the About.com Cross Stitch forum are always ready to share advice and so much more. Become a Member today.
Stay up-to-date with when new articles and free patterns are added to About.com Cross Stitch. Subscribe to the free newsletter today.
