Types of Biscornu: An Embroidery Guide to Shapes
It seems unfair that these charming little embroidered forms are still unfamiliar to so many people. Outside embroidery circles, many makers have never heard of biscornu (from the French for "quirky" or "funny"). Here are some of the most popular shapes, so you can choose a favourite. π₯°
Classic biscornu
A classic biscornu is sewn from several squares, though it no longer looks square once it has been assembled.
The classic version is also described in a separate step-by-step tutorial.
Tulip biscornu
This graceful "flower" is essentially the classic shape, but assembled in a special way that gives it its unusual form.
Pendibulle biscornu
Often nicknamed a dumpling, it is really closer to a small heart and is frequently stitched for Valentine's Day.
Berlingot biscornu
A small, plump pyramid with equilateral sides. It is one of my favourite shapes: easy to sew and endlessly cute. Many people hang berlingots on the Christmas tree, often worked in cross-stitch.
Berlingots can also be worked in decorative surface stitches, as in this original tea-bag imitation.
Zigouigoui biscornu
A very tiny cushion. You can hang it from the centre, creating a small central dimple.
Or hang it by a corner, when it looks like a miniature version of an ordinary cushion.
Bar-shaped biscornu
Another popular Christmas-tree ornament. It reminds me a little of a party cracker and is a good choice when you want an easy assembly with a striking result.
Bell biscornu
Often stitched for Christmas, this is a more advanced option. Assembly requires precision, otherwise the bell can easily turn out uneven.
Snowflake biscornu
A reliable winter shape that looks especially festive when embellished with seed beads.
Star biscornu
A particularly beautiful shape. It is sometimes sewn from several pieces, usually five for each side.
It can also be sewn from just two pieces, front and back, for a more seamless effect.
Ball biscornu
The weightiest of the shapes listed here, assembled from geometric pieces of different sizes. It is not my personal favourite: it is large, very simple in outline, and has many different assembled parts.
By New Year I hope to make a little star of my own, perhaps more than one. I could prepare a tutorial or organise a stitch-along for anyone interested. π
I've fallen in love with the bar-shaped biscornu! :love: If I still feel the same by October or November (I'm rather fickle, you know))), I'll gladly join a biscornu stitch-along! (y)