The History Of Embroidery

Embroidery is the process of using a needle to apply thread or yarn to decorate fabric or other materials. The word embroidery is derived from the French word broderie, which means decoration. Embroidery has been around in various forms since the beginning of fabric production. Although embroidery is popular around the world, its origins lie in China and the Near East. Early embroidery actually dates back to the time of Cro-Magnon or 30,000 BC. Archaeological finds from this period reveal extensive fossil remains of hand-sewn and decorated clothing.

Other early examples of embroidery found in China date to the Warring States Period, between the 5th and 3rd centuries BC. In Sweden, the earliest embroidery found is from the Viking Age, around the ninth and tenth centuries. The practice of embroidery began to flourish in Europe around 1000 AD as the Christian church grew and royal power increased. Ornate costumes and decorations such as wall hangings and tablecloths were commissioned to display power and wealth.

Furthermore, embroidery was important in the medieval Islamic world as it was a sign of high social status in Muslim society. In cities such as Damascus, Istanbul and Cairo, embroidery can be found on items such as handkerchiefs, flags, uniforms, robes, harnesses, bags and covers.

Later, in 18th-century Britain and its colonies, embroidery was a skill that marked a girl's entry into womanhood and conveyed class and social status. Soon after, however, the development of embroidery machines and mass production emerged in stages during the Industrial Revolution. The earliest machine embroidery was discovered in France in the mid-1800s, combining machine looms and hand embroidery.

Around 1900, mail-order catalogs and pattern papers made embroidery more common.

Embroidery was no longer just a pastime for the upper classes as it could now be done with cheaper materials. Additionally, while embroidery was historically done primarily by women, the art of embroidery is now favored by men. Actor Henry Fonda revealed in an interview that embroidery was his favorite hobby. Another famous male embroiderer was King Gustaf V of Sweden from 1907 to 1950.

Embroidery today looks a lot different than embroidery in the past. Most modern embroidery is stitched using computerized embroidery machines using patterns that are "digitized" through computer software. While the styles and techniques of modern embroidery may differ from its ancient roots, most of the purposes and uses of embroidery remain the same. Embroidery has and will always be a popular way for people to decorate their homes and themselves with personalized branding and logos.