What is it?
Brazilian embroidery is a technique produced mostly in dimensional
stitches using Z-twisted rayon embroidery thread. Brazilian
embroidery patterns usually include flowers formed using both
knotted and cast on stitches.
What is it's history?
Brazil started producing multicolored rayon threads in several
weights. The popularity of the thread spread rapidly throughout
Brazil to the point where variegated rayon embroidery became know
as Vari-Cor embroidery. It wasn't long before the rest of the world
noticed its popularity and immediately adopted it as "Brazilian".
It was also developed in Brazil in 1960 by Mrs. Elisa Hirsch Maia
(known as Madam Maia).
How do I do it?
In Brazilian embroidery it is important to tie knots at the
beginning and the endings of threads. It is not necessary to use a
hoop but some of the stitches such as bullion stitch, couching and
stem stitch may benefit from a hoop. Some specialist needles are
needed for example a milliners needle used for bullion and cast-on
What are the best embroidery stitches to use for Brazilian
Suitable stitches for Brazilian embroidery include: Bullion Stitch,
Cast-on Buttonhole, Couching, Detached Buttonhole, Drizzle, Leaf
Stitch, Pistil or Long-Tailed French Knot and Stem Stitch
The Art of Dimensional Embroidery (Paperback) by Maria A. Freitas
Brazilian Three-dimensional Embroidery (Embroidery, Needlework
Designs Series) (Paperback) by R. Montague (Author)
Manufacturer of Rayon threads
Dimensional Embroidery Information Guide
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Copyright 2009 Sarah Whittle - Hand Embroidery Network