Earlier this year, I taught a couple workshops with the Virtual Sewing and Stitching Expo, where I shared thread painting techniques. We used them to create blooming heart cacti and it was so much fun to watch my fellow makers paint with thread.
So what is thread painting?
Thread painting isn't necessarily a new term, but it's become a popular trend with hand embroidery. To thread paint pretty much means "to paint with thread." Now this might sound confusing, because painting and embroidery are very different art forms. In essence, thread painting uses the long and short satin stitch to blend colors together to look as if the thread was painted onto the fabric.
Here's a few ways I've used thread painting in my embroidery practice:
Here's some beautiful examples of thread painting by fellow embroidery artists.
Thread painting has become very popular among artists who stitch animals. This technique is a realistic way for them to capture animal fur, feathers, texture, and movement.
Photo from @stitchingsabbatical
Photo from @villagerthreads
Photo from @single_sparrow_stitcher
Photo from @monsterbox
Along with pets, embroidery artists are using thread painting to create people portraits too.
Photo from @rebel.stitches
Photo from @fiance_knowles
Photo from @jolly_hoops
Thread painting is also great for landscapes. Just check out these gorgeous designs.
Photo from @green_ball_and_aneedle
Photo from @etuaembroidery
Photo from @cassiemdias
You can even use thread painting to create everyday items.
Photo from @peacocksandpinecones
Photo from @laurenconcatherine
Photo from @homesweetbrooch
Photo from @chloe.amy.avery
Photo from @tessa_perlow
Want to learn how to thread paint?
You can join me for an upcoming workshop or check out some of these patterns, kits, and books:
Pet Portrait Embroidery: Lovingly Stitch Your Dog or Cat; A Modern Guide to Thread Painting by Michelle Staub
How to Embroider Texture and Pattern by Melissa Galbraith
Thread Painting: Simple Techniques to Add Texture and Dimension by Leni Levenson Wiener
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