Eleanor Dress Problems

[isabelladangelo]

Actually, it's a problem with the couching/embroidery/whatever you want to call it. The cord I'm using is fraying at the ends a couple of hours after I attach it. I've tried tucking the end under but that doesn't help. I might go to the old stand by of clear nailpolish but is there any other ideas out there? In order to slip the ends under the bodice and re-sew them in, it would mean taking apart the dress the way I have it sewn. If I have to, I will, but I'd like to hear other options/ideas/thoughts first.

I might end up using a different, thinner cord for the decoration part of the embroidery. I've only finished the outlines for now. The thinner cord is the same color so it won't be glaring, just a thinner cord bound on either side by a thicker cord.

If anyone wants pictures, just ask. I'll take 'em tonight probably.

Comments

[firenzekat.livejournal.com]

good question. One I will be asking within about 6 months (hopefully). So I look forward to answers as well.
:)

[jennylafleur.livejournal.com]

Yeah, pics would be helpful!

[janinas-nest.livejournal.com]

Is it possible at all to separate the layers of the bodice just a tiny bit? Pinching the lining and pulling it away from the outer fabric? If so, then you could sink the ends into that space. Carefully take a small awl, and work the threads apart enough to get the trim through. Thread a needle with a sturdy thread. Push the needle eye first through your hole, leaving a goodly tail on the backside. Lasso the trim with the loop you have created on the top side, and gently pull the trim through. To get the end back between the layers, you may have to nudge it back with the blunt end of a largish needle. If you were able to get a lot of separation of the layers, you may be able to just pull through the top layer. Carefully realign the thread of the surface layer around the trim, and voila! your ends are hidden.

I can show you in person if this is completely opaque.

edited for grammar

[sstormwatch.livejournal.com]

I have found that it works well to wrap the ends with thread, before plunging it into the backside of the fabric. That helps to hold the cord ends, and a little Fray Check or similar on the wrapped cord helps, too.