In couture and art, embroidery isn’t just ornamentation- it’s a language. Of light, texture, and emotion. And like any language, it only works when the message is clear.
At Ricamour Embroideries, we’ve learned that the path from a designer’s mind to an embroidered masterpiece is built on one thing: communication. Clear, vivid, thoughtful communication.
So how do you ensure your embroidery partner understands exactly what you’re dreaming of?
Let’s talk about the (many) ways to get your vision across- without anything getting lost in translation.
Start with the Mood, Not the Motif.
What should the embroidery feel like? That’s your real starting point. Is it wild or structured? Moody or luminous? Dreamlike or grounded?
Moodboards go a long way here- but think beyond embroidery. Share the vibe and feel you’re after- maybe it’s a Klimt painting, or moss growing on stone, or an old rusted gate in Sicily. These references speak to tone, palette and texture in ways a flat sketch never can.
Pro tip: Don’t just say romantic. Say Bridgerton-romantic.
Your Sketches Don’t Need to Be Perfect.
We’ve worked with everything- doodles, moodboards, scribbles on hotel notepads. And yes, detailed CADs. What matters most is intent.
Mark up your sketch with embroidery thoughts: some crystals here, sequins there, maybe a cluster of French knots for texture.
Don’t worry about being too specific- leave room for suggestions. That’s often where things get better.
Also a 10-minute video call? It can save 30 back and forth emails. Always worth it.
Sampling Is Where the Magic Happens.
Think of samples as the bridge between dream and delivery.
It’s where your ideas go from imagined to embroidered.
Always see a physical swatch before you greenlight production. Touch it. Feel it. Photograph it. See how it behaves on the actual base fabric.
The best samples come from trial, error, and small tweaks.
It’s not about perfection — it’s about alignment.
Making sure everyone’s looking at the same picture.
Set Realistic Timelines.
Hand embroidery takes time. Especially the intricate kind. Or the experimental kind. Or the “what if we tried this completely new thing?” kind.
Here’s what to factor in:
• Swatching: 1–3 weeks, depending on feedback and approvals
• Bulk production: 3–5 weeks (sometimes more, depending on complexity and scale)
Always build in buffer time.
Keep the Thread of Communication Clean.
One point of contact on each side = a much smoother process
And yes — always discuss timelines and budget early on. It saves a lot of guesswork later.
Photo updates at key stages help everyone stay aligned.
And changes? Easier to make when caught early.
Give Feedback That Moves the Needle.
“It doesn’t feel right” might be true- but it’s not actionable.
Try:
- “Can we increase the density in this area?”
- “These beads are too shiny- can we try a matte version?”
- “I’d love more contrast here.”
Screenshots with notes? Yes, please.
Trust the Process (and Your People).
Embroidery is part precision, part instinct.
It shifts. It evolves. It surprises.
The best outcomes come from dialogue, trust and curiosity.
Share your vision. Stay open to what unfolds.
In the end, it’s all about creativity, communication and collaboration.
About Ricamour Embroideries:
Ricamour Embroideries is a hand-embroidery and design studio based in Mumbai. We work with design houses and ateliers around the world, reimagining embroidery for fashion, interiors and art.
Curious about our journey? Read the story behind Ricamour here.
To explore new ideas or custom embroideries, email us at info@ricamour.com or message us on WhatsApp.
