What is Chenille Embroidery?

Chenille embroidery, commonly referred to as “chenille,” is a distinct embroidery technique that uses yarn instead of standard threads like polyester or viscose. This substitution of yarn gives the designs a thicker, more textured, and convex appearance.

Types of Chenille Embroidery

1. Loop Chenille (Terry Embroidery)

• Characterized by its soft, towel-like structure.
• Popular for children’s, youth, and advertising clothing.
• Provides a raised, soft-to-the-touch design.
• The height of the loops can be customized to client preferences.

2. Chain Chenille

• A flat, chain-like embroidery design.
• Thicker than traditional embroidery threads.
• Frequently combined with loop chenille for intricate designs, such as letters with loop fillings and chain borders.

Chenille embroidery can also integrate other techniques like sequins, jets, pearls, or prints to create unique designs.

Materials and Application

Direct Embroidery

Due to the need for material stability during stitching, chenille designs are usually embroidered directly onto fabric pieces like sleeves or blouse fronts rather than finished garments.

Patches

• Sew-On Patches: Applied manually to clothing.
• Thermo-Foil Patches: Applied using heat transfer via a press or iron.