Most frequently asked question answered

One of the most frequently asked questions I get is this: ‘Is haute couture embroidery suitable for me?’ ‘Do I have what it takes to learn?’ ‘Do I have the right prior education?’ or this variation: ‘Am I professional enough?’

In today’s blog post, therefore, I examine two things:

1. for whom it is not
2. for whom it IS!

And the answers may surprise you. So stay with me to the end!

For whom is haute couture embroidery NOT the right choice?

When looking for the person for whom haute couture embroidery is a perfect fit, it is useful to start with the person for whom it is NOT a good fit. Think of the following three typologies:

The “impatient ones”

Haute couture embroidery requires patience; patience to master the technique, patience to find the right materials, patience to come up with a suitable design …. Nothing comes naturally in haute couture embroidery. It requires a certain attitude. 

Now I am the last person who would call himself patient! Yet when it comes to embroidery, I manage to be patient. That is because it has completely taken hold of me. I love embroidery!

Those looking for a “quick fix”

Well, if you are looking for an easy solution to create something special, I don’t recommend you start with haute couture embroidery techniques. You won’t find it there.

Actually, it’s the same with everything of value: what you have to do your best to learn takes time and energy. That is why not everyone does it, and so you are doing something special … but that is beside the point

Those who are not prepared to invest in themselves

Growth comes from an investment. Whether this is time, money or energy … nothing happens by itself! Haute couture embroidery demands something from you. An investment. It is waiting for you to decide if you are ready to make that investment in yourself. Don’t get me wrong: there is a time for everything. Is this your moment?

For whom is haute couture embroidery GREAT?

And then we come to the right target groups: the people for whom haute couture embroidery, drumming or decorating with needle and thread is the perfect match!

Amateur and Professional

Let us begin by stating clearly that haute couture embroidery is a wonderful craft for both the amateur and the professional in fashion. The technique is so specific that in the course we start at the absolute zero, at the very beginning.

It is especially important that you are open to learning a special technique and that you can see well. After all, it is a tricky job. A loupe or a loupe lamp can help.

The one who wants to take his or her work to a higher level

When you watch CHANEL and DIOR’s haute couture shows on YouTube, you will notice that it is mainly embroidered garments that catch the eye. It is the glamorous details and the personal, manual touch that make evening wear and bridal designs stand out.

Need for Understanding of Embroidery within the Design Process

For fashion students and -designers, a basic knowledge of haute couture embroidery can help them to better guide embroiderers in realising a design. Experiencing the amount of time that can go into a seemingly simple embroidery project, plus knowledge of different materials and techniques, are of added value when working in teams and when thinking of special applications of this craft in modern designs.

Fashion designers and makers of evening and bridal wear

The most obvious group for whom haute couture embroidery can be a perfect addition to their repertoire are the designers of red carpet-, bridal- and evening- wear. What could be more beautiful than a sparkling addition of beads and sequins to clothing at special moments in our lives? For those moments when we literally and figuratively want to shine?

Artists

More and more artists are using beads and sequins. It gives them the opportunity to use 3D techniques to give more depth to otherwise ‘flat’ forms such as paintings and photographs. 

What now?

If you are thinking now: this is really perfect for me! I am ready for it! Then send me an e-mail to saskia@saskiaterwelle.nl. In the next few days I have a very cool plan that is valid until 7 May 2021. I will be happy to send you the details.

And if you are interested in receiving my newsletter and the free cheat sheet with 5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU START WITH TAMBOUR EMBROIDERY, please sign up on the home page.

Ciao! 

Couture training

The programme of workshops, master classes and training courses at Dutch Couture Academy is aimed at (future) professionals in the fashion industry who are looking for an opportunity to specialise in couture techniques. Enthusiastic amateurs are also very welcome! In the courses, a balance is sought between technique and inspiration, between knowledge and skill and artistic expression. Discovering one’s own handwriting is seen as crucial to the distinctive craftsmanship of each course participant.