Embroider Tulang Belut at the "V" Neckline
Tulang belut is a traditional Malay embroidery that is intricate, requires patience but once done properly the results can be very impressive.
There are several ways of embroidering especially at the “V’ part of the neckline but the steps shown in my video are the ones that I am most comfortable and happy with.
Similar to many others, I first learnt the basics to embroidering the tulang belut from my mother while I was still at school. Over the years I accommodated the steps to suit my personal preferences.
For example, my mother taught me to begin embroidering from the left corner at the top opening of the neckline and end at the same left corner.
I too begin embroidering from the left corner but its because I’m right handed. If you are left handed, beginning from the right corner of the neckline may be much easier and more comfortable for you.
Embroidering the tulang belut for me is divided into 2 parts.
I end the first part of embroidering at the end of the “V” corner of one side of the neck opening. The second part begins at the (left) corner where I first started embroidering and continue downwards to finish the uncompleted side of the neck opening. Embroidering ends at the “V” corner where the the two embroidery parts meet.
There are 2 main reasons why I chose these steps to embroidering the tulang belut;
I feel the “V” corner of the neckline is the most vulnerable and needs strengthening . Ending at this point gives extra focus to this corner.
When the embroidery on the left and right sides of the neckline opening faces the same downward direction, it gives a more attractive symmetrical look. This is of course purely a personal choice.
This ‘how-to” video was made as I had several requests as to how to embroider at the “V” neckline of the Baju. A very big “Thank you” for your kind requests and I hope you find the following video helpful in learning to embroider the tulang belut at the “V” neckline in greater detail.
Happy Embroidering!