I have to do a lot of rat-tail edging to things, and I was wondering what the best way to do this is. I already figured it was hand sewing, but under, on top, with barely visible stitches? Any thoughts here? Thank you in advance.
I really do need an answer here and I don't know where to go. Can someone make a suggestion that's done it before?
If I'm understanding what you're describing correctly, the technique is called "couching". If you do a google search for "couching thread" or "couching cord", you'll find a ton of webpages describing the technique. This one is particularly good:
http://flickrembroidery.blogspot.com/2007/04/how-to-couching.html
Does that help?
Yes, it helps a lot. I didn't know the danged term and I'm a dork.
Woohoo! Let us know how it goes - I'd love to see photos. I haven't tried this technique yet, but it is on my list of things to learn. :)
You might ping one of our old forum members, Isabella d'Angelo. She's currently working on a couched-trim bodice - but I don't think she's made it over to the new site yet. :) Her email is isabelladangelo at gmail. :)
http://flickr.com/photos/jubileel/sets/72157604956712538/
She's always more than happy to gab garb!