Ukrainian craftswomen used different techniques when decorating embroidered shirts. But the tambour seams on the element of the Ukrainian national costume looked special. What was the secret of this technique?
The history of tambour embroidery has not been fully studied. It is believed that the use of chain stitch began simultaneously in different parts of our planet. In any case, it is impossible to establish exactly in which country tambour embroidery first appeared.
Tambour embroidery was also used by craftswomen of the Middle East, and in Ancient Rome, and in Greece. The first samples of fabrics embroidered with tambour were discovered two thousand years ago. Of course, in the process of development, certain performance techniques appeared, the nature of embroidered patterns, their color scheme was formed. Tambour embroidery acquired national characteristics.
Tambour embroidery has always been colorful. Contrasting in relation to the background contour enhanced the decorative effect. Threads that differed from the background in color made it possible to create linear or rosette patterns. Floral and floral ornaments - fruits, leaves, trees, flowers - were complemented by objects that surrounded the craftswomen. It could be brushes, drops, hooks and so on.
Interestingly, at first the chain stitch was used as an addition to the main embroidery. He helped to "outline" the contours of certain patterns. But the simplicity of execution, the variety of decorative possibilities made the technique of tambour embroidery universal among craftswomen.
Especially tambour embroidery fell in love with embroiderers from Kharkiv, Sumy, Poltava and Chernihiv regions. The relief pattern of embroidery embroidered using this technique created a special play of light. The tambour stitch added integrity to the entire composition: the stitches were links in one chain.
Reviving the tradition of wearing embroidered shirts is in trend today. But collectors of ancient national clothes look at it differently. Shirts embroidered with tambour in the past are unique exhibits that any collection can be proud of.
