Design Classifications

Pechera, derived from the Spanish word that means "shirt front," is a statement of plain simplicity with restrained embellishments. A typical pechera design has patterns on the front panel usually in a U, I, V, or diagonal form with or without scattered embellishments on the sleeve and back panels.

This is pechera (U or I form only) with a stripe pattern on both sides of the main pattern. We also refer to this style as front raya.

Raya, derived from the Spanish word that means "stripe," is a midway between extremes with moderate embellishments. The patterns in stripes are extended from the front to the sleeves and across the back panel.

Batok, derived from the Filipino word that means "nape," is also a midway between extremes with moderate embellishments. The patterns are extended to the front shoulders and across the upper back.

This is a variation of batok style in which the patterns are extended to the sleeves.

Scattered, as the name implies, has scattered or sparse embellishments covering all the panels.

This style is any design with a layout that doesn't follow any of our above-mentioned standard design styles. We have at least fifteen variations of this style in our design inventory.

A variation of special style in which the patterns are extended to the upper back.

All-Over Calado is a statement of sophistication with uttermost embellishments. Calado, a form of open thread work done by hand, is used to adorn the entirety of either the front panel only (Front All-Over Calado) or all the panels - front, back, and sleeves as well as the collar, placket, and cuffs (Full All-Over Calado) with scattered, pechera, pechera with side patterns, raya, batok, or special as the base design. 

These are designs that most often occur in nature. Organic design forms such as leaves, branches, flowers, animals, etc. are executed using freeform embroidery. To add texture, depth, and intricacy, organic designs are usually complemented by open interlaced thread work called calado.

These are geometric abstractions that represent ethnic motifs and patterns indigenous to a community or tribal culture. The designs predominantly use straight lines and plane shapes (polygons) that are executed using counted-thread embroidery.

These are geometric abstractions that follow the art style of the 1920s and 1930s which is known for the use of materials such as steel, chrome, or glass. The designs are characterized by repetitive geometric patterns of curves, lines and various shapes that are executed using freeform embroidery.