XiuJin: The Unique Combination of Metal Craft and Embroidery

Breaking Stereotypes and Reviving Traditional Craftsmanship

The inspiration for the XiuJin collection came from the designers' observation of various accessories in the market. They noticed that while designs incorporating metals and gems may seem traditional, they offer great opportunities for combining with contemporary materials. Additionally, the team wanted to revive the fading art of embroidery, which carries the spirit of tradition and conveys a unique sense of craftsmanship.

What sets the XiuJin collection apart is the way it breaks the stereotypes associated with common metals. By incorporating stereoscopic embroidery, the designers bring vibrant colors and a visually attractive element to the combination of metal craft and embroidery. The result is a collection that exudes warmth and uniqueness, challenging the notion that metals are cold and impersonal.

The XiuJin collection is made using traditional metal craft techniques and hand embroidery. The materials used include 925 silver, mechanical embroidery thread, and white pearl needles. The metal parts are electroplated with 14K gold to enhance their beauty and durability.

The collection consists of a bracelet with a diameter of 60mm and a height of 20mm, a necklace measuring 130mm in length and 50mm in width, a hairpin measuring 170mm in length and 95mm in width, earrings in two variations - light flower (95mm in length and 18mm in width) and dark flower (110mm in length and 18mm in width), and a ring measuring 40mm in length and 15mm in diameter.

The XiuJin collection was created by the design team at Tainan University of Technology's Product Design Department, under the guidance of instructor Peilin Lee. The project began in July 2018 and was completed in March 2019 in Tainan, Taiwan. It was first exhibited at the biggest department store in Tainan and later showcased at the Young Designers' Exhibition held in the World Trade Center of Taipei in May 2019.

The XiuJin collection is not only a result of creative design but also extensive research. The team aimed to transform traditional accessories into new forms and revive traditional craftsmanship. They explored the possibilities of combining metalworking and embroidery techniques, resulting in a collection that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation.

One of the challenges the team faced was figuring out how to combine metal parts and embroidered objects in a visually appealing way. They brainstormed ideas to ensure that the final sewing part was beautiful and seamless. Through their dedication and creativity, they overcame these challenges and created a collection that showcases the best of both metal craft and embroidery.

The XiuJin collection has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2019. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contribute to quality of life improvements, and make the world a better place.

The XiuJin collection is a testament to the power of combining different materials and techniques to create unique and visually stunning designs. It challenges stereotypes, revives traditional craftsmanship, and showcases the talent and creativity of the design team behind it. With its intricate metalwork and vibrant embroidery, XiuJin is a true work of art.