Regional Embroidery Styles
The Four Famous Embroideries: Su, Xiang, Yue, and Shu embroidery. These classic styles emerged during the Qing Dynasty and remain renowned today for their highly refined craftsmanship and widespread fame.
Other Regional Styles: Jing, Lu, Bian, Ou, Hang, and Han embroidery, among others; each reflects distinct regional cultural characteristics.
Ethnic Minority Embroidery
Miao Embroidery: Known as "history books worn on the body," it employs techniques such as flat stitch, split-thread stitch, braid stitch, and tin-wire stitch, embodying the historical and cultural memory of the Miao people.
Other Ethnic Styles: Yi, Qiang, and Shui (horsehair) embroidery; these feature rich, unique patterns and serve as quintessential expressions of their respective ethnic cultures.
Classification by Technical Characteristics
Classic Hand-Embroidery Techniques: Single-sided, double-sided, double-sided (differing colors), random-stitch, and gold/silver thread embroidery. Double-sided embroidery, in particular, displays a complete image on both sides and demands an exceptionally high level of skill.
Modern Machine-Embroidery Techniques: Satin stitch, 3D embroidery, appliqué, tatami stitch, and towel (loop pile) embroidery; these are suited to the mass production requirements of modern apparel.