Embossing Velvet

EMBOSSING VELVET

Velvet is unique in its construction and should not be confused with other pile fabrics such as velveteen and velour.

Velvet is a woven fabric, its pile formed from warp(lengthwise) yarns woven into the backing. It is woven on a double piece loom which creates two fabrics simultaneously. Velvet pile is sandwiched in-between the layers. As the cloth comes off the loom, the "pile sandwich" is split to create two pieces of velvet, each with an erect pile.

In contrast, velveteen and corduroy are woven on a plain loom. Their pile is formed from filling(crosswise) yarns looped into the backing fabric. Velour is knitted.

Velvet can come in many fibers, cotton, rayon, silk, acetate, or combinations of these. Choose the one most suitable for your project.

The higher the pile the more distinct the embossing becomes. Also, some velvets have a more open pile. These make the best impressions.

You certainly can use velveteen and other pile fabrics. You just need to test first. Some produce only so-so results.

ITEMS TO EMBOSS WITH:
1.) Rubber Stamps(work the best)
2.) Cookie Cutters
3.) Metal Charms
4.) Heavy Embroidered Lace
5.) Lace Appliques
6.) Crochet Motifs

The thing to keep in mind is the simpler the design the better an embossing it makes. You can even cut your own stamps out of erasers to have a truly one-of-a-kind design. Tiny details will not show up due to the nature of the pile fabric. Large simple designed rubber stamps work the best.

EMBOSSING STEPS:

Start with a few scraps to practice on. Using either a plant mister filled with water, lightly mist the pile of your fabric.

Place your stamp or other embossing tool face up on the ironing board. Lay the velvet pile side down over the stamp. Using a press cloth, press the velvet with a dry iron (setting suitable for the fiber type) for 20-30 seconds (the longer pressing times leave a stronger impression).

You may need to move the iron around a bit if you have steam holes, be careful not to move the fabric. The best iron to use for embossing is one without sole plate steam holes. As the holes can leave an impression on your velvet.

Lift up the velvet . You should see the embossed pattern.

Practice on a few more scraps as this is an easy way to decide which design works best.

Your embossed velvet will not lose it pattern through cleaning but be sure to clean the fabric as per the manufacturer's instructions.

PLANNING YOUR DESIGN

Since you will be working from the wrong side of the fabric, you can easily mark the design placement on the wrong side with a chalk pencil or disappearing marker. Use a light touch so as not to crush the pile.

DESIGN PROJECT

The best first project is a pillow. Cut you two(2) pieces of velvet to make two 16 inch squares. Now choose your stamp(s). Just do an allover embossing. Use a simple stamp like a swirl or circle. Emboss your 2 pieces of velvet squares. When finished with embossing pin your 2 squares right sides together. Now either hand stitch or machine stitch the velvet squares together using a half inch seam allowance. Leave an opening for turning right sides out and to stuff your pillow. Now stuff your pillow with Dacron stuffing(available from any craft or fabric store). Now whip stitch the opening closed and you have your embossed velvet pillow. Enjoy.

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