Sichuan Embroidery

A Sichuan embroidery work as a handicraft article must also be fixed into a frame made of phoebe nanmu or wooden－sculptured stand. That is the fourth step and the last step in the making of a Sichuan embroidery article.

In the history, it was mainly the male workers who made a career of Sichuan embroidery and passed on their techniques from generation to generation. Later however, people found that the clever Sichuan girls were more patient and imaginative than men. So women entered into this business and their wisdom has been fully played in this field.

Sichuan embroidery articles are mainly divided into two types: articles for interior decoration or collection such as hanging screen or desk screen, etc. and articles for use including quilt cover, pillowcase, slipcover for chair, embroidered shoes and clothes as well as stage costumes.

In the past, Sichuan embroidery articles were made at home or in small workshops. It was difficult to develop the diversities, patterns and techniques of Sichuan embroidery due to the poor working condition. Today the embroidery handicraftsmen work together at mills, which has brought an unprecedented development to the Sichuan embroidery.

It is just with their needles, threads, silk and satins that the embroidery workers have created these vivid plants and animals—a second natural world and a series of scenes to please our eyes and mind.

Sichuan embroidery is really an art and a wonder created by mankind with their hands.