_PRINT-WORK._
This is a very fine kind of embroidery, and specimens of it are quite
rare. As the name implies, it is intended to imitate a picture, and is
generally used only for small subjects--the stitches being almost too
minute to be distinguished at all.
It is done on white silk or satin, which is carefully stretched in a
frame, and the design is then drawn on it. This is sketched with a
pencil, and usually worked in black silk; the various shades between
black and white may be used, but not colors--as the object is to
represent an engraving. Lead color, or pale slate, will be as suitable
as black.
A very fine needle must be used, and fine silk to correspond; and a
dotted engraving can be so well imitated in this kind of work that it
is almost impossible to tell the difference. The stitch used is known
as masking-stitch; and it is set as closely as possible without lapping
one over another.
In working a copy of an engraving, the embroiderer begins with the
darkest shades, which are done with black silk; gradually proceeding
to the lightest tints, with silks of the intermediate shades--blending
them into each other with the nicest care. To accomplish this, where it
is necessary to introduce the lighter portions, the stitches are set
wide apart and the intervals filled up by putting in the lightest tint
used.
The worker must always have the engraving before her to study the
lights and shades. Fine engravings can be copied in the same way--but
the stitches should be longer and wider apart.
This kind of needlework requires great patience and is a heavy strain
upon the eyesight; and considering the beautiful effects produced
by other methods with less outlay, it is not likely to become very
popular.