The French small knots belong to types of hand embroidery which, despite the name, have not been thought up in France. They are known as French in the Western world because French needlewomen were the first in Europe which have shown keen interest in them. It was when with China the continuous barter became adjusted. These needlewomen saw nodular embroidery on various elements of the clothes brought from China and tried to repeat the unusual equipment.
- Repeating the Chinese embroidery, the European needlewomen have given to small knots the features which have remained also till today: carrying out the French small knot, it is necessary to wrap thread around needle not less than two times. In weaving of the Chinese small knots it is enough to make of it only once.
- The main function of the French small knots is decorative. Them bring, as a rule, ready embroidery to perfect image. For example, embroider cores of flowers (the French small knots just are ideal for creation of stamens), cherries, buds of roses, small florets. Or stitch rather fine details, such as features, birthmarks or eyes. Or other elements – hair of lamb, peas on dress, the angel's curls. Actually in such type of embroidery the considerable potential which will open to any patient embroideress is put. By means of the French small knots alone it is possible to carry out tremendous pictures or charming objects for the house – lamp shades, needle cases, pillows, jewelry – rings, brooches, hairpins.
- Prepare fabric, needle and threads for embroidery. Fix thread from inner side of fabric, and then extend it on the face.
- As it is possible closer to fabric reel up thread around needle two times (in the direction from yourself), at the same time hardly pull thread.
- Lower needle near that site of fabric where thread came to surface.
- Then stretch thread on inner side, very carefully bringing up her that the turned-out small knot was not scattered.
- Nothing difficult at first sight, the equipment is absolutely clear. However there is number of secrets which help to make such work more better. First, both hands have to be free for manipulations. Therefore it is better to conclude the site of fabric which is intended for embroidery, in tambour. Secondly, this fabric has to be very well tense and that thread with which you will wind needle. Thirdly, when you enter needle back into fabric, try to do it closer to the first opening, from this, where there is thread.