Bunka Embroidery…

Also known as Bunka Shishu and Japanese Punch Embroidery.

This art form originated in Japan around the beginning of the last century. Bunka Embroidery is created by using a unique combination of punch needle and special silk-like rayon thread (yarn). When completed, many pictures resemble delicately shaded paintings. In fact, the needle is held and operates in much the same manner as an artist’s brush or pencil. The Bunka artist uses many different stitch techniques in order to achieve the desired effect of depth and interest but unlike other forms of needle art, there are no knots to tie, and mistakes are easily corrected. Bunka Embroidery is framed under glass and is not used for decorating clothing or pillows etc.