What is Chainstitch Embroidery?

A single thread chain stitch embroidery machine uses a freehand crank below the machine to direct the motion of the stitch onto a piece of fabric. This technique is becoming a lost art and the amount of chainstitch and chenille artists are few and in-between. I use a Cornely K and a Lintz & Eckhardt A here in THE WORK SHOP.



Before computerized embroidery, these types of machines were used to stitch names onto clothing, decorative embelishments, custom work shirts, and westernwear.


All custom embroidery work at The Killer Clothing Collective takes place on the collection of antique industrial embroidery and sewing machines.
Computerized and automated embroidery is not done at
The Killer Clothing Collective.


THE PROCESS


1. Quote: You can reach out through email: info@thekillerclothingcollective.com or visit the shop at 519 Thain Road, Suite A in Lewiston, Idaho.



2. Design: You can bring in your own artwork (most file formats), hand sketches, or I can design something original for you* (*additional fee).



3. Embellishments: Chainstitch and Chenille (traditionally known as moss stitch and it’s done on Letterman’s jackets) work is done in "The Work Shop"on one of the antique hand-crank industrial machines.  I have other embellishments and treatments available in the studio, feel free to ask about them.



4. Attachment: I can apply chain stitching directly onto textiles or create a custom patch that is sewn onto the garment. Most chenille applique is done on felt and made into a patch that is sewn onto a piece of clothing.

5. Clothing: I can apply chain stitch directly onto textiles or create a custom patch that is sewn onto the garment. Chenille applique is done on felt and made into a custom patch that is sewn onto a piece of clothing. I specialize in replicating vintage techniques from the masters of these machines. I have a wide selection of "vintage" embellishments in the studio for people to look through.

6. Cost: Every commission is different and here is what I use to determine price:

  • Number of colors and type of embroidery.
  • Size of the design.
  • Complexity of the work.
  • Special details (specialty textiles, design fee, attachment, finishing work, custom requests, etc).

If you are interested in commissioning me for a custom piece, feel free to reach out to info@thekillerclothingcollective.com