Fine Hand Sewing
French handsewing or "heirloom sewing" refers to the method of creating garments or linens by hand. With techniques such as rolling and whipping, handmade tucks, puffing, and embroidery the results are exquisite in detail and beauty. Some of the embellishments that are often added are entredeux, fine French laces (insertions and edgings), Swiss embroideries(insertions and edgings), and ribbons. Fabrics used are natural fiber fabrics such as cotton (batiste or organdy), linen (handkerchief weight), silk or wool (as in wool challis). These are used not only for authenticity but also for ease in stitching.
This art form has been handed down for generations. Nuns in Europe sewed beautiful clothing by hand for royalty and later women enjoyed sewing handmade clothes for themselves, their children, and for others. Creating clothes with a tiny needle and fine thread was in danger of becoming a lost art. Fortunately, however, there has been a resurgence of interest in recent years. The techniques of French hand sewing can be used to make such things as gowns, linens, and boudoir pillows. With our fast-paced lifestyles, this often makes us nostalgic for the leisure time of yesteryear. Hopefully, our perpetuation of this art will generate treasured heirlooms of tomorrow.
SAGA provides fine hand sewing classes at its annual convention. In addition, SAGA Stitches programs are available, as well as correspondence courses and chapter programs for those interested in learning the art of fine hand sewing.