What is a Squinch?

Since so many people have been asking, I decided to make a post that is all about Squinches, where they came from, how they got their name, etc.

As I mentioned in this earlier post, I picked up a book called Sculpted Threads at the fabric store a few weeks ago. It shows a really awesome technique for machine embroidery, where, instead of the threads lying flat, the edges start to ruffle and fold in on themselves. It's a really awesome technique, but uses a LOT of thread.

Using some of the basics in the book, I started making my own designs. This black & red piece was the first one I made that did not follow any of the specific patterns in the book, and the first one listed in my Etsy store.

I wanted a fun name that would be unique to these creations, while not infringing on the original artist's titles. I posted here and on the Etsy forums for suggestions, knowing that the Etsy community has many talented and creative people. Someone suggested the name "squinch" and I immediately knew it was perfect.

A "squinch", according to Google, is an architectural term: "A structure, such as a section of vaulting or corbeling, set diagonally across the interior angle between two walls to provide a transition from a square to a polygonal or more nearly circular base on which to construct a dome." I love the name because it sounds like a portmanteau of squeeze and pinch, which are exactly the methods I use to shape the ruffles at the final stage of creation.

Now having a name, I set out to start making more Squinches for my Etsy shop. Squinches start out looking something like this. Lots and lots of layers are added, thread colors are changed, stitch type is altered, all to give the final creation a unique pattern of color and ruffle. No two will ever be the same. Even earring sets look different, despite my best efforts to make them the same.

Squinches make great decorations on bags, scarves, and hats, or can be worn as brooches (although I'm personally not a fan of brooches). They can sit on your desk as a sculpture, or to hold loose coins, or even business cards. Small ones can become earrings or necklace pendants. The colors can blend together or be blatantly different. There really is no design limit on these guys.

When I list Squinches in my shop, I give each one a name. So far all the names have begun with 'S' (Sara Squinch, Suzy Squinch, etc) but I'm not sure how long I can keep that up. Each Squinch has a different personality, and I try to capture that in my descriptions. Also, each will be shipped in a small box, nestled in fabric. The fabric will be different for each Squinch, depending on their personality. For instance, Sara likes black velvet, while Suzy likes white satin. I played with the idea of making Squinch families, but I think that would get long and confusing ;)

So there you have it - everything you ever wanted to know about Squinches. If you still have questions, leave me a comment and I'll add in the answer!