Everything You Need To Know About The Schiffli Fabric

Introduction

Fabrics play a major role in fashion & clothing, and knowing your fabrics makes it easier to choose the right kind. There are a plethora of fabrics and textiles when it comes to the Indian textile industry and the details and intricacy it takes to make an embroidered fabric are fascinating. Different kinds of fabrics are used for different clothing depending on the occasion and season.

Our topic of discussion today is an embroidered fabric which is cool for the summer. In this blog, we are going to talk about a particular embroidery called Schiffli. So, dear readers, let’s jump into the fabric fable!

What is the History of Schiffli?

The history of Schiffli finds its roots in Switzerland during the early 19th century. Isaak Gröbli, a Swiss textile engineer, pioneered the Schiffli embroidery machine in 1820, marking a significant advancement in the textile industry.

The term "Schiffli" is coined from the Swiss-German term signifying "little boat," referencing the unique boat-shaped shuttle utilized in the machine. The Schiffli machine transformed embroidery from a labor-intensive craft to a scalable and commercially viable method, making it more accessible and revolutionizing textile production.

What is the Schiffli Embroidery?

Hand embroidery has been done on fabrics for ages but machine embroidery was created after the Industrial Revolution. Schiffli embroidery is done based on the principle of the sewing machine and the schiffli embroidery machine was invented after 1873.

Now, you must be wondering, what is the schiffli fabric? Schiffli is a type of lace that is embroidered using the schiffli machine and is derived from the German word which means ‘little boat’. The production process varies depending on the patterns.

How Schiffli Embroidery is Done?

The schiffli embroidery is done using a multi-needle loom that uses around a thousand needles. The fabric is held against the loom and needle in a way that it can easily be moved back and forth. An interlocked series of embroidery is created which forms into a lace pattern. The fabric on which the embroidery is done is immersed in a chemical bath in which the un-embroidered patches dissolved and the only thing left is the lace.

Benefits of Schiffli Fabric

• Intricate Embroidery: Schiffli fabric is known for its detailed and intricate embroidery, creating beautiful and elaborate patterns on the fabric.

• Versatility: The versatility of Schiffli fabric allows it to be used for various types of clothing, including dresses, blouses, and even accessories, providing a wide range of styling options.

• Breathability: Schiffli fabric often incorporates breathable materials, making it comfortable to wear in various climates and suitable for different seasons.

• Drapability: Schiffli fabric typically has good drapability, allowing it to flow gracefully and complement the natural contours of the body, enhancing the overall silhouette.

• Luxurious Look: The intricate embroidery and attention to detail in Schiffli fabric contribute to a luxurious and high-end appearance, making it a preferred choice for upscale and formal attire.

• Cultural Significance: Schiffli embroidery often incorporates cultural motifs and traditional patterns, adding a layer of cultural richness to the fabric, making it suitable for ethnic and festive wear.

Read More : What type of fabrics are good for our body?

Different Variations of The Schiffli Embroidery

The schiffli embroidery can be used to create diverse patterns with a three-dimensional effect based on the thread type, color, pattern, and fabrics. The following are the common varieties when it comes to schiffli embroidery –

• Embroidery with Borer Holes also called Eyelets are small perforations that can be made in many shapes with a cloth or metallic threads.
• Schiffli Embroidery on Net can be done on net-like base fabrics.
• Another common variety is the Guipures Embroidery which is done based on the chemical properties of the fabric. A water-soluble material is used to create this embroidery and the focus is not on the physical appearance but on the fabric properties.
• Applique Embroidery used a second layer of fabric in addition to the base fabric. The upper layer is rolled up and secured while the base layer is being embroidered.
• Lastly, there are embroideries done with metallic threads and colorful threads too. Overall schiffli embroidery on the fabric is also a very popular variation.

What is Schiffli Lace and How it’s Different from Other Types of Laces?

Schiffli lace is different from other types of laces in several ways. Here are some key differences:

Technique

Schiffli lace is created using a specialized embroidery machine called a Schiffli machine. This machine uses multiple needles and bobbins to create intricate lace patterns on fabric. In contrast, other types of laces, such as bobbin lace or needle lace, are created entirely by hand.

Complexity

Because Schiffli lace is created using a machine, it can be much more intricate and detailed than other types of laces. The Schiffli machine can create highly complex patterns with a high degree of accuracy and consistency.

Cost

The cost of Schiffli lace can vary depending on the complexity of the design, but it is generally more expensive than other types of laces due to the specialized equipment and skilled labor required to create it.

Appearance

Schiffli lace has a distinctive look that sets it apart from other types of laces. It is often characterized by its delicate, intricate patterns and its sheer or semi-sheer appearance. The strength and resistance to fraying of Schiffli lace make it a popular option for high-end clothing and accessories.

Schiffli Fabric Usage

The modern-day usage of the schiffli embroidery is vast. The embroidery is often used in salwar kameez and the schiffli fabric with embroidery on the borders is an all-time favorite for making palazzo pants and long flared skirts. In home décor, schiffli fabric is used for making cute cushion covers and pillow covers. The schiffli lace is exported from Gujarat and is widely used for clothing purposes.

Schiffli Fabric Styling

When it comes to styling, the schiffli cotton fabric is an excellent choice for the summer season. The material looks and feels super comfy and breathable. The schiffli embroidery adds to the cotton fabric and can be used for making adorable dresses for girls and women alike. Not only cotton but the embroidery is also done on various other fabrics. You can go for bright or pastel color schiffli fabric and create a classy summer look.

A white cut-sleeve schiffli fabric dress is a must-have in your summer wardrobe. Schiffli embroidered shirts and kaftans are super breezy and great for surviving the heat. In Indian wear, you can make kurta sets and blouses out of this fabric. Pair a schiffli embroidered blouse with a floral saree for an understated appeal.

This durable and strong fabric is one of the top choices for creating statement looks especially for the summer season. You can do so much with the schiffli embroidered fabric in terms of clothing and home décor. If you want to buy schiffli fabric online, you can check out our collection at www.tradeuno.com. We have a wide variety of schiffli fabric in different patterns and colors. Trust us, you won’t be able to choose only one piece. Well, we recommend going all in and shopping your hearts out!

Conclusion

In summary, Schiffli embroidery is a captivating fusion of intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Its versatility across fabrics and patterns, coupled with a distinctive production process, makes it a standout choice for fashion and home décor. Particularly favored for summer, Schiffli fabric on cotton provides a breathable and stylish option. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Schiffli a cotton fabric?

Ans: Schiffli is an embroidery method that can be applied on a variety of materials, including cotton, rather than a specific sort of cotton fabric. In fact, cotton fabrics like muslin, voile, and lawn are recognised for being utilised with Schiffli embroidery.

Due to its adaptability and durability, cotton is a popular fabric choice for Schiffli embroidery, although it may also be done on other fabrics like linen, silk, or synthetic materials.

The designs can range from delicate floral themes to striking geometric shapes, and the stitching is often done in white or a single colour.

These beautiful design fabrics are made by use of a Schiffli machine, a unique style of embroidery machine. This machine makes elaborate designs by using numerous needles and bobbins.

2. How much is Schiffli fabric per meter?

Ans: The cost of Schiffli fabric per metre can differ significantly depending on a number of elements, including the fabric's quality, how intricate the embroidery is, and the provider or merchant from which you are buying the fabric.

In general, Schiffli fabric tends to be more expensive than plain cotton fabric or other types of embroidered fabric due to the specialized equipment and skilled labor required to create it. Additionally, the intricacy of the embroidery can impact the price, with more complex designs typically costing more than simpler designs.

Our prices at TradeUNO fabric store for Schiffli fabric start at just 226 Rs/meter, with options ranging up to 1224 Rs/meter for more complex designs and higher-quality fabrics. While never compromising on either quality or customer service, we are committed to providing fair pricing.

3. Is Schiffli fabric good for summer?

Ans: Yes, Schiffli fabric can be a good choice for summer. It is a lightweight and breathable fabric that allows air circulation, keeping you cool and comfortable in hot weather. It's soft and smooth texture makes it comfortable to wear even on the hottest days. Additionally, Schiffli fabric is typically made from natural fibers such as cotton, which further enhances its breathability. Schiffli fabric can be a great option to keep you feeling fresh and fashionable.

4. What is Schiffli fabric?

Ans: Schiffli fabric refers to a type of embroidered fabric that is created using a Schiffli embroidery machine. The fabric is typically made from materials such as cotton, linen, or synthetic fibres. Schiffli fabric is often characterized by its beautiful patterns, ranging from floral motifs to geometric shapes and intricate lace-like designs. It is commonly used in the production of making garments such as dresses, blouses, bridal wear, as well as in home decor items like curtains and table linens.

5. What is another name for Schiffli fabric?

Ans: There isn't a specific alternative name for Schiffli fabric. It's primarily recognized by its original name, derived from the German term meaning 'little boat.'

6. Where did Schiffli fabric come from?

Ans: Schiffli fabric originated from the invention of the Schiffli embroidery machine, which was developed after the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. The name 'Schiffli' comes from the German word for 'little boat,' representing the intricate movement of the embroidery machine.

7. What is the season for Schiffli fabric?

Ans: Schiffli fabric is particularly suitable for the summer season. Its lightweight and breathable nature make it an ideal choice for warm weather, providing comfort and style.

8. What is Schiffli lawn fabric?

Ans: Schiffli lawn fabric refers to Schiffli embroidery done on lawn fabric. Lawn is a lightweight, finely woven cotton fabric known for its crisp texture. When combined with Schiffli embroidery, it creates a delicate and breathable fabric, often favored for summer clothing like dresses and blouses.