passments

Passments, also known as passements, are a type of decorative stitch used in embroidery and textile arts. They are characterized by their intricate, repeating patterns that create a continuous, flowing design. The term "passment" comes from the French word "passement," which means "passing" or "going through," reflecting the stitch's continuous nature.

Passments are typically created using a single thread and a needle, with the thread passing over and under the fabric in a specific sequence. The most common type of passment is the "chain passement," which consists of a series of stitches that form a continuous line. Other variations include the "double passement," which uses two threads to create a more complex design, and the "triple passement," which uses three threads.

Passments are often used to create decorative borders, frames, or fill-in areas in embroidery projects. They can be worked in a variety of stitches, including satin, backstitch, or running stitch, depending on the desired effect. Passments can also be used to create intricate patterns and designs, such as flowers, leaves, or geometric shapes.

In addition to their decorative uses, passments can also serve a functional purpose in embroidery. They can be used to reinforce the edges of a piece of fabric, to create a stable base for other embroidery stitches, or to create a decorative border that frames the piece.

Passments are a versatile and essential technique in embroidery and textile arts, offering a wide range of creative possibilities for designers and artisans. Their continuous, flowing nature and intricate patterns make them a popular choice for adding decorative elements to a variety of projects.