Fabrics play a major role in fashion & clothing, and knowing your fabrics makes it easier to choose the right kind. There are a plethora of fabrics and textiles when it comes to the Indian textile industry and the details and intricacy it takes to make an embroidered fabric are fascinating. Different kinds of fabrics are used for different clothing depending on the occasion and season.

Today’s topic of discussion is an embroidered fabric which is cool for the summer. In this blog, we are going to talk about a particular embroidery called Schiffli. So, dear readers, let’s jump into the fabric fable!

Introduction to Schiffli Embroidery-

Hand embroidery has been done on fabrics for ages but machine embroidery was created after the Industrial Revolution. Schiffli embroidery is done based on the principle of the sewing machine and the schiffli embroidery machine was invented after 1873.

Now, you must be wondering, what is the schiffli fabric? Schiffli is a type of lace embroidered using the schiffli machine and derived from the German word which means ‘little boat’. The production process varies depending on the patterns.

The Schiffli machine is a multi-needle loom, whose field of embroidery is wide, constant and coinciding. This machine uses approximately a thousand needles that are placed in horizontal lines, one above the other. The fabric is held against the entire width of the loom and the needles, like the sewing machine, move back and forth through it. The embroidery creates an interlocked series of thread which in essence becomes the lace pattern and a standalone piece of embroidered lace. The fabric on which this embroidery is created is known as the ‘sacrificial fabric’ because after the embroidery is completed, the length of the fabric is immersed in a chemical bath in which the un-embroidered patches dissolve and the lace remains.

How is Schiffli Lace Different from Other Types of Laces?

Schiffli lace is different from other types of laces in several ways. Here are some key differences:

• Technique – Schiffli lace is created using a specialized embroidery machine called a Schiffli machine. This machine uses multiple needles and bobbins to create intricate lace patterns on fabric. In contrast, other types of laces, such as bobbin lace or needle lace, are created entirely by hand.

• Complexity- Schiffli lace is created using a machine, it can be much more intricate and detailed than other types of laces. The Schiffli machine can create highly complex patterns with a high degree of accuracy and consistency.

• Cost- The cost of Schiffli lace can vary depending on the complexity of the design, but it is generally more expensive than other types of laces due to the specialized equipment and skilled labor required to create it.

• Appearance- Schiffli lace has a distinctive look that sets it apart from other types of laces. It is often characterized by its delicate, intricate patterns and its sheer or semi-sheer appearance. The strength and resistance to fraying of Schiffli lace make it a popular option for high-end clothing and accessories.

Schiffli Fabric Variety

The characteristic feature of Schiffli embroidery that differentiates it from other forms of machine embroidery is the ability to create diverse luxurious patterns with a three-dimensional effect.

There are many varieties that can be found in Schiffli embroidery, based on thread type, thread color, patterns, fabrics, and usage.

 The following are the common varieties when it comes to schiffli embroidery –

• Embroidery with Eyelet- Eyelets are small perforations that can be made in many shapes 2-D shapes and are rimmed with either cloth threads or metallic threads. The complete effect is achieved when stitches are placed on the outer edges of the eyelet.

• Embroidery on Net- This type of Schiffli embroidery makes use of net-like base fabrics on which the embroidery is created.

• Guipires Embroidery- This type of Schiffli embroidery is based on the chemical properties of the fabric rather than its physical appearance. Water-soluble material is used in the creation of Guipires Schiffli embroidery.

• Embroidery with Applique- In this variant, the second layer of fabric is added to the base fabric at the beginning of the process. However, this is rolled up and secured on the upper roller of the loom while the base is being embroidered. The front yarn is then cut, the applique fabric spread out and then the embroidery is continued.

• Embroidery for Borders- This type of Schiffli embroidery is classified based on its usage for embellishing the edges or the borders of a garment.

• All Over Embroidery- Schiffli embroidery, when done all over the fabric, involves stitching the cloth continuously with one pattern from one edge to the other. However, there can be separate patterns right at the beginning and right at the end of the fabric.

Schiffli Fabric: Usage and Styling

The modern-day usage of schiffli embroidery is vast. The embroidery is often used in salwar kameez and the schiffli fabric with embroidery on the borders is an all-time favorite for making palazzo pants and long flared skirts. In-home décor, schiffli fabric is used for making cute cushion covers and pillow covers. The schiffli lace is exported from Gujarat and is widely used for clothing purposes.

When it comes to styling, the schiffli embroidery on the cotton fabric is an excellent choice for the summer season. The material looks and feels super comfy and breathable. The schiffli embroidery adds to the cotton fabric and can be used for making adorable dresses for girls and women alike. You can go for bright or pastel color schiffli fabric and create a classy summer look.

A white cut-sleeve schiffli dress is a must-have in your summer wardrobe. Schiffli embroidered shirts and kaftans are super breezy and great for surviving the heat. In Indian wear, you can make kurta sets and blouses out of this fabric. Pair a Schiffli embroidered blouse with a floral saree for an understated appeal.

This durable and strong fabric is one of the top choices for creating statement looks especially for the summer season. You can do so much with the schiffli embroidered fabric in terms of clothing and home décor. If you want to buy schiffli fabric online, you can check out our collection at https://embroidery4u.in/ . We have a wide variety of schiffli fabrics in different patterns. Trust us, you won’t be able to choose only one piece. Well, we recommend going all in and shopping your hearts out!