How To Use Rajmahal Art Silk

By: Rajmahal

Using Rajmahal is very similar to using other threads. The difference is in the special finish you'll achieve! To ensure that you achieve maximum success, please read these handling tips.

 

Winding

 

It is best to wind your skeins onto a card or spool prior to use. Remove label, cut the holding thread at the knot, then open skein out. Loop skein over thumb, then take the end of the skein and wind it thread around the hand, finishing with top over forefinger as in the diagram. Wind thread from your hand to the card or spool.

 

Separating

 

If using less than 6 strands, separate strands singly after cutting desired length. Take the end of the strand in one hand, holding the other strands together with your spare hand. Pull a single strand straight up from the bunch. Repeat until you have removed the desired number of strands. It is preferable to work with, rather than against, the grain or twist of the thread.

 

Perfect Knots and Bullions

 

The shine of Art Silk makes French Knots & Bullions simple to work, as the thread slides easily off the needle.

 

Successful Stitching with Rajmahal Art Silks

 

Art Silks can seem a little "springy" if you are used to working with wool or cotton. If you are noticing the "bounce" you can "calm" the thread by:

 

• Passing the thread through an anti-static clothes dryer sheet
• Running slightly damp cotton wool along strands just prior to use.
• Pass thread lightly through beeswax (good for additional strength when using Art Silks in conjunction with metallics, shisha or sadi.
• Spray thread lightly with spray starch
• Use the correct number of strands required for the work you are doing appropriate to the fabric you are using. And choose the appropriate needle!

 

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Techniques and Aftercare

 

Rajmahal Art Silk is a strong, lustrous and versatile thread which works wonderfully well for many forms of needle art.

 

The thread is well suited to needlework of all types, including stumpwork, crewelwork, miniature embroidery, Brazilian, petit point, cross stitch, goldwork, sadi, shisha, canvaswork, silk ribbon, hardanger, whitework, smocking, lace-making, tassel and fringes, braiding, weaving.

 

Rajmahal may also be used for machining. (2,000 metre cones available, or wind skein onto bobbin).

 

Rajmahal Art Silk adds a special finish to even the simplest of stitching. Dyed to be complementary for perfect shading, colours range from very rich and exotic to delicate pastels onto the complex renaissance shades.

 

Rajmahal Art Silk makes wonderful tassels - send for you free brochure- how to make simply sensational tassles.

 

Aftercare

 

We recommend dry cleaning for the optimum care and continued lustre of your embroidery.

 

To press your embroidery after completion, place embroidery face down, with the right side on a towel. Press carefully on the wrong side being careful not actually press your stitching. Smooth the surrounding fabric.

 

Due to changes in anti-pollution laws, certain dye-setting agents can no longer be used. This means it is more difficult to set dyes. If slight "bleeding" occurs, simply continue to rinse with cool water until all residue has gone.

 

A little bi-carb soda or vinegar helps in final rinse to maintain lustre.