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Adding a sumptuous tassel to a stitched piece finishes off a project beautifully. We explore the world of home-made tassels and give you step by step instructions to make your own.
Choosing the right thread
The best embroidery threads for making small tassels are those with a heavy, floppy feel, such as Rajmahal silks from Fabric Flair, and Anchor Marlitt. For larger tassels try using Coton Perle and the variegated Multi's embellishment yarn from Coats Crafts UK.
Using metallic threads
Embroidery threads can be combined with metallic threads to create lots of different effects. Use firm threads that will hang nicely such as Anchor Lame, Crisallina and Ophir to create the 'skirt' of the tassel, and Madeira Rainbow and Anchor Reflecta for the neck section.
Making cords
Almost any thread can be used for making cords, although soft and firm threads give a stiffer result. For the best cords, combine threads with different qualities to produce exactly the type of cord you want.
MAKE OUR BASIC TASSEL
We made a stunning tassel using a piece of cardboard cut to the size of the required length of the tassel. If you prefer you can buy a tassel maker called a Tatool from the Viking Loom (tel. +44(0)1904 765599).
You will need
* cardboard or Tatool
* thread, in contrasting colours
* scissors
* masking tape
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1. Attach your holding thread to the top of the piece of cardboard with masking tape. This thread will be used to help gather the bundle of threads together when you have finished wrapping the skirt of the tassel.
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2. Wrap the thread around the piece of cardboard to create a bundle of threads. The amount of times you wrap the thread will depend on the thickness of the thread and the fullness required.
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3. Tie the holding thread, which was stuck to the top of the piece of cardboard, to bunch the threads together and then cut along the bottom edge to make the skirt.
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4. A tightly-wrapped neck is the key to a successful tassel. The thread can be simply wrapped and the ends sewn in, but this whipping technique hides the ends without sewing.
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5. Hold the cut ends of the tassel together. Form a loop facing down the tassel and hold in place. Wrap a thread around the top to form a firm tight neck. Thread the end through the loop and pull tight.
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If you are looking for the quickest way to add a cord to your tassel, follow our easy instructions...
1. Lay the thread bundle out flat and untie the holding thread. Tie a knot in the end of the cord and position so that the knot is just below centre.
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2. Ease the bundle of threads around the cord and tie the holding thread tightly. Pick up by the cord and let the threads fall down to form the tassel.
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3. Hold the cut ends of the tassel together and wrap thread around to form the neck. Trim the ends to the length required.
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