Tin embroidery is a distinctive and time-honoured embroidery technique of the Miao people, aptly named after the primary material used: metal tin. The appearance of tin closely resembles that of silver, with the added advantage of being highly resistant to oxidation and discolouration.
The initial step in creating tin embroidery involves the use of black cotton thread to embroider traditional patterns on white cotton fabric. Subsequently, the white cotton is dyed a rich navy blue, rendering the black embroidery thread nearly imperceptible.
Next, thin tin sheets are meticulously cut into 1 to 2 mm wide strips. These tin strips are then carefully woven through the embroidered threads on the fabric, cut, tightly rolled, and secured in place. Finally, additional coloured patterns are embroidered within the gaps of the original design.
The set of tin embroidery pieces shown in the pictures is part of a personal collection. They are in excellent condition, featuring distinct and well-defined patterns. The soft navy-blue fabric effectively enhances the texture of the tin strips.
Tin Embroidery
