Blouse

Blouse from Penang, made by women. Girls practice from an early age. By the time of her betrothal, she masters the techniques and vocabulary of all traditional designs. Skill and originality are important assets.

The embroidery technique is cut and drawn work, referred to as open work embroidery, which is done after drawing designs on fabric. Part of the ground fabric is cut away or withdrawn. Stitches are used both to prevent fraying of cut edges and to embellish the edges of the spaces.

Light blue sheer blouse with embroidery. The blouse has long sleeves, a centre opening and a long angled front hem. The neck, sleeves and hem have satin stitched blue lilies and pink flowers with open work (fabric removed) in dark blue between the flowers. The inside is unlined.