Other stitching types, such as thickening stitching, are sometimes applied to deliver a more dense and voluminous effect in the design of rolling clouds or animal tails.

"The most challenging part is facial detailing," Zhao notes, adding that it is intricate because the expressions through curved eyebrows and the eyes need to be crafted meticulously through multiple stitches.

In most cases, facial detailing consists of strands that are as thin as one 70th or one 80th of a silk thread.

"This meticulous approach results in embroidery that is richly colored and highly three-dimensional, inviting viewers to appreciate every fine detail," she adds.

Innovative exploration

Wuxi has long been known for its silk production. Local embroidery flourished during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties.

"Back then, most people mastered embroidery techniques as a way to pursue the beauty of life," Zhao says.