Smocking

Smocking

A cable stitch is used for smocking and includes two rows of running stitches, whereby the stitches in one row cover the gaps between the stitches in the second row.

Smocking is a decorative technique consisting of the gathering together in regular folds of a wide width of material. Sometimes the term 'honeycombing' is used for this type of work, after a popular smocking pattern called 'honeycomb'. Smocking is used to control the fullness of a garment, especially around the sleeve cuffs, bodice, shoulders, as well as in the front and back neckline, leaving the material following these areas free and loose fitting.