How to Do Indian Embroidery

Saris are often embroidered with shisha stitching.

There are multiple methods and styles of embroidery that originate from the different regions of India. One common method is known as Indian Shisha, or mirror embroidery. This type of embroidery is often added as decoration to clothing, handbags and other accessories. The techniques used for Indian embroidery are essentially the same as any other embroidery style, varying more in terms of texture, fabric and color. Frequently, sequins and beads are also used as embellishments.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Embroidery hoop
• Needle
• Shisha mirror
• Embroidery floss

Instructions

1. Secure the section of fabric you would like to embroider in your embroidery hoop. Cut about 40 inches of embroidery floss. Thread your needle through to the center of the thread and tie the two loose ends into a knot.

2. Place your shisha mirror on the fabric. Secure it using a foundation stitch. Work a second, matching foundation stitch, rotated 45 degrees from the first one.

3. Push the needle up through the fabric next to the edge of the shisha mirror. Insert the needle over and under the foundation stitches and back out towards the edge of the mirror. Pull the needle through.

4. Work one backstitch next to the edge of the mirror. Continue this process all the way around it.

References

• Embroiderers Guild: Shisha Stitch