Using laying tool in temari embroidery

Using a Laying Tool or Trolley Needle in Temari Stitching

For those that have not had other embroidery experience, the concept of using a laying tool while you stitch may be new. Laying tools or trolley needles can be quite helpful in smoothing out and holding stranded fibers (such as multistrand floss, or ribbon) in place while stitching. Laying tools are separate implements that resemble a heavy needle or small awl, with a small handle or grip on them. Trolley needles are similar but usually are attached to a thimble or thimble "ring" that you wear on a finger, similiarly to using a thimble while you stitch. In lieu of either one, a large darning needle (blunt point) or even the eye of your stitching needle can be used in the same manner and for the same purpose.

Another purpose of a laying tool (or back end of your stitching needle) is used to "groom" threads or strands into proper position - that is, usually "stroking" the threads or nudging them into place if they didn't quite land there while stitching. Other times you really DO need to stroke things into place no matter what, for example in the "V" of the wedge of the Uwagake Chidori. While not a requirement, using laying tool rather than your needle can be a bit safer; it is larger and easier to hold on to at an angle that's comfortable for gently coaxing the threads into place. It is also safer for your threads, since while the tip of the laying tool is pointed, it's not the piercing-sharp of the stitching needle, which can damage threads or the mari wrap if you are over-zealous. Japanese embroiders use a similar tool called a Tekobari, especially in traditional Japanese embroidery. Tekobari tend to be longer, finer and sharper than the laying tools used in Western embroideries.

Debi shared the following about using a laying tool: " You can use the point to groom the threads after the stitch is already placed. There are two other techniques I use with it. I am not sure I can explain them well in words but I will try.... One thing I do when using a stranded (or ribbon) fiber is take the stitch with the needle but don't pull the thread all the way through. Take the laying tool and place it next to the beginning of the stitch under the thread (where presumably it is layed correctly because it was pulled through correctly the last time). Placing some tension on the thread, run your tool under the thread towards the end of the stitch. When you get close start to pull the thread through with the needle while keeping the tension with the tool. Slip the tool out as you pull the stitch flat (see photo at right)". When the stitch is completed the fibers should be flat and aligned

"The other thing I do (often if the first method doesn't work) is again, take the stitch with the needle but don't pull it through yet. Arrange the threads as needed right up to the point where they go either under another row or into the mari. Place the tool across the threads holding them in place with some pressure as you pull the needle and thread the rest of the way through, as shown in the photo.

In general my temari needle is big enough that I use it for my laying tool rather than using a separate one, but I could see if I did a lot of floss work that I would want the laying tool because it is easier to hold and has better control because of its size and shape. (Thanks to Debi and her hubby for providing the photos of Debi demonstrating technique).

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From Anastasia - I also use the laying tool in those ways, - laying the threads flat over the point, and then pulling the stitch taut and using the tip of the laying tool to hold my flattened strands in place while I pull the stitch taut. I guess I think of those techniques as different ways of "grooming" the thread into place. One way or the other, I think the essential part is getting the threads all lined up before you pull the thread all the way through. Even though it can be awkward to stop part way through taking a stitch to get each strand properly arranged, it's truly a lost cause to try to get the strands all sorted once they are snug against the ball. Laying floss so that it is smooth becomes a lot easier when you use a laying tool (which may convert those that "hate" using stranded floss because of needing to smooth it!) . You can also use a needle to smooth the strands. The important part is to get the threads/strands flat before you pull the stitch taut, as there is really no way to sort out a twist once it's nice and tight against the surface of the ball. Once you get the hang of it, it really isn't all that fussy.
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From Linda D: the type of laying tool I use for needlework is a a trolley needle, and it's much easier to handle than a tekobari or even a large darning needle. I will suggest you use a great deal of caution if you choose to try a trolley needle - don't try to scratch your eye...ick...not a "good thing" :>). I've used one for over 20 yrs. and never had a boo-boo from it.
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From Janet P: There are lots of different types of laying tools and there are even good ones you can improvise yourself. If pointy things are a problem, look into wooden laying tools. They work well, and have blunter ends.