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Quantity in Package

Each package has 18 inches of silk check #4

Thread Structure

Silk check #4 is crafted by wrapping copper wire with delicate filament silk, then coiling the silk-wrapped wire around a mandrel, or “needle,” to form a tightly wound spring shape. Instead of using a round ‘needle’, the ‘needle’ is triangle shaped and rotates while the check is formed. This rotation of the triangle ‘needle’ leaves a bend in the coil that rotates around the thread, creating a fantastic spiral texture. The diameter of the purl is determined by the size of the needle used during the coiling process. The silk colors match the Pipers silk line.

Uses of Silk Check #4

Silk check #4 are couched into place using matching silk threads. I prefer using the TIRE silk threads for this size. These check can be couched to outline and fill figures, creating detailed designs. When stretched, they also serve as perfect material for depicting hair in stumpwork, such as the flowing manes of lions or the hair of figures. Often, the check are cut into shorter segments, threaded onto silk, and sewn in place to form raised loops that stand proud from the fabric. This technique is especially effective for filling entire flowers, adding texture and dimension to the embroidery.