DECORATIVE EMBROIDERY AS A TOOL FOR SHAPING THE AESTHETIC AND PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES OF HEMP TEXTILE MATERIAL FOR FOOTWEAR UPPER COMPONENTS

Abstract

Purpose. Study of the aesthetic, functional, and performance properties of hemp fiber textile material for footwear uppers, as well as substantiation of the influence of decorative embroidery parameters on shape stability, wear resistance, and product quality.

Methods. The study employed methods of critical analysis, systematization, and generalization of scientific publications and regulatory-reference sources in the field of textile and footwear manufacturing. Experimental, organoleptic, and comparative research methods were applied to evaluate the properties of hemp woven fabric and finished footwear. The design of footwear models and decorative ornaments was carried out using graphic modeling, technological approaches to textile footwear manufacturing, and comparative analysis of embroidery parameters.

Results. The influence of the number, density, and size of embroidery stitches on the shape stability, flexibility, wear resistance, and ergonomic properties of hemp woven fabric intended for footwear uppers was investigated. It was established that decorative embroidery performs not only an aesthetic but also a reinforcing function, contributing to increased resistance of the material to deformation and mechanical stress. The study determined that the use of small stitches measuring 1–2 mm, particularly the optimal size of 1.8 mm, ensures uniform fabric tension, high ornament clarity, improved shape stability, and enhanced wear resistance without significantly reducing flexibility and comfort. Based on the obtained results, a collection of hemp textile footwear models with elements of traditional Ukrainian embroidery adapted to footwear operating conditions was developed. The developed footwear demonstrated high aesthetic indicators, color fastness of embroidery during washing, insignificant residual deformation, and high water resistance and moisture absorption properties.

Scientific novelty. The relationship between decorative embroidery parameters and the structural-mechanical, performance, and aesthetic properties of hemp textile footwear was substantiated. For the first time, optimal embroidery stitch parameters were determined as a factor in improving the shape stability and operational reliability of textile footwear materials based on hemp fiber.

Practical significance. The obtained results can be applied in the production of environmentally friendly textile footwear to improve its quality, durability, ergonomic, and aesthetic characteristics. The proposed technological solutions contribute to the integration of traditional Ukrainian embroidery elements into the modern design of competitive products made from natural plant-based fibers.