Industrial crochet embroidery is a new technique developed in the R&D workshop at Marini Ricami 1986. It translates the look of hand crochet into a controlled, precise and repeatable process. The aim is to preserve crochet’s distinctive texture—openwork, raised details, floral motifs and geometric patterns—while making it suitable for prototyping and industrial production.

From hand crochet to industrial embroidery

Traditional crochet builds a surface from stitches and loops. Our research starts with the visual and tactile result: volume, pattern, solid areas and open spaces are reinterpreted as stitch sequences that industrial embroidery machines can produce.

This is not hand-crocheted fabric. It is industrial embroidery with a crochet effect, designed to achieve a natural, three-dimensional appearance with repeatable production settings. The photographs show real samples developed in our workshops.

Floral motifs, openwork and three-dimensional surfaces

The technique can be used to develop geometric modules, rosettes, floral motifs, borders and open lattice structures, alternating dense areas with open ones. Yarns, colours, stitch densities and module sizes can be adapted to each project. The thread does more than decorate the surface: it becomes part of its visual structure.

Applications in fashion, leather goods, footwear and interiors

Industrial crochet embroidery can be designed for tops, waistcoats, dresses, skirts, inserts and borders, as well as panels for bags and accessories. In footwear, it can become a decorative insert for uppers, with thickness, edges and assembly areas considered from the start. At a larger scale, it can be used in interior design for panels, cushions and textile surfaces.

From research to production

Marini Ricami 1986 studies techniques traditionally associated with handcraft and translates them into controlled industrial processes. For the crochet effect, the process includes design, yarn selection, stitch planning, density, connections between elements, sampling and refinement on the material chosen for the project.

The result is a customisable design approach for different collections and products. To explore other possibilities, visit our page on industrial embroidery services and techniques.

Custom industrial crochet embroidery

A floral motif, a geometric pattern or a design from a fashion studio can become the starting point for a new development. Marini Ricami 1986 supports designers and product developers from research and prototyping through to industrial production.

Contact us to request samples or prototypes, or to develop a custom industrial crochet embroidery.