If you execute a swap reverse, then keep on working chain with the same shuttle, the curve of the chain will be reversed. Observe the effect by working a few repeats of this pattern:
C: 4--4 swap reverse
note that you will be working alternately on the right and wrong sides. Before each swap, push the chain together firmly so that the curves will be pronounced. Or start with a tight curve and gradually relax, so that you can see the effect of tension.
A sinuous chain worked in this manner may be sewn to fabric by its picots, worked into an embroidery design, or used as an insertion. Adding joins can make an insertion or edge that holds its shape without being sewn down:
C: 4-4--4-4 swap reverse
C: 4-4--4-4 swap reverse
* C: 4+4--4-4 swap reverse
repeat from *
If the ball thread is on a shuttle, you can add rings or clovers along one side. Is there room for S-curves in the chains of any of the designs you've already created? Can you create a medallion by forcing this edging to curve?
The sinuous chain can also be worked by changing shuttles instead of swapping threads. If you do both, the curve will be re-reversed and you can make a checkered chain:
Work a chain with two shuttles wound with different colors. Work a swap-reverse, then continue chaining with the other shuttle, so that the curve continues in the same direction, but the color of the chain changes. Note that the swap reverses divide the chain into segments; if the segments aren't all drawn to precisely the same tension, the curve of the chain won't be uniform. Try to make a spiral by starting with the tightest possible curve, then making each section a wee bit looser than the one before.
I haven't the slightest idea what the checkered chain is good for, but it's a neat trick.
On to Exercise Fifteen:
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