For many seminarians, the day of priestly ordination is approaching, a day eagerly awaited not only by the seminarian himself, but also by the family and the entire community. After years of study and experiences aimed at fully understanding their vocation, seminarians are preparing to say with strength their “Here I am” to the Lord.
In addition to spiritual preparation, there is also a material preparation of what the seminarian needs on the day of priestly ordination. Arte Ricami has always provided new priests with the alb, chasuble and stole for the priestly ordination. The alb, or white garment, is a reference to the white robe of Baptism, and its white color reminds us of the purity of Christ. In this article, we are presenting again some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our clients regarding the alb for priestly ordination, hoping to help you with our answers in choosing the right alb for you.
How can the priestly ordination alb be embroidered?
The alb normally has embroidery on the sleeves and hem at the bottom. Arte Ricami carries out two types of albs: albs with hemstitch and albs with different types of laces. Our embroideries are exclusively handmade.
The alb with hemstitch
Among the most common types of embroidery used for albs is the hemsttich, an elegant yet simple embroidery style. It can be done in a tone-on-tone threads or in pearl gray. In addition to the classic alb with a single row of embroidery and a cross, you can opt for up to five rows of hand embroidery, which makes the alb more solemn and suitable for a priestly ordination. There are also many other types of embroidery, some very precious and intricate. You can ask our retailers to show you our embroidered details, allowing you to appreciate firsthand the uniqueness of our handmade embroideries.
Vatican alb in grey color and example of Richelieu stitch cross.
The alb with Richelieu lace.
Another type of decoration for the alb used in priestly ordination is the Richelieu lace embroidery. This is a perforated embroidery technique that originated around 1500 in the Mediterranean region. In this case, we can offer you both simple and more elaborate intagli, reaching up to a height of 50 cm.
Why prefer a hand-embroidered alb to a machine-embroidered alb?
- Hand embroidery is an art that is deeply rooted in the tradition of the Church. If we are still enchanted by an ancient, precious liturgical garment today, it is not only because of the beauty of the fabric but, above all, because of the harmony that a completely handmade piece exudes. It is our duty to carry on this tradition so that future generations can also appreciate the beauty of a hand-embroidered garment, carefully crafted in every detail.
- Hand embroidery makes your garment unique and one-of-a-kind. The person who works on your piece will never be able to replicate the exact same embroidery on another garment. Each stitch is a reflection of the artisan’s personal touch, making every piece truly special and unrepeatable.
- Hand embroidery is beautiful. The skilled hand, working patiently and precisely, creates the embroidery on your garment, adding depth and movement to the piece. Hand embroidery can be recognized from a distance for its sophistication, elegance, and craftsmanship.
Arte Ricami’s products are exclusively hand-embroidered.
How to measure for a priest’s surplice?
Arte Ricami can create a custom-made alb for your ordination. You will need to measure the sleeve length, shoulder width, and height from the collar to the ground. With these three measurements, a personalized garment can be made. Additionally, you can inform us if you prefer a Roman (or square) collar or a round collar. In the case of the round collar, you can request a zipper at the front or on the shoulder.
How far in advance should I order the ordination alb?
If the garment is made to measure for you, we recommend get in touch with us about 4 months in advance. This way, your alb can be created and delivered in time for your ordination. If the ordination date is approaching and you haven’t yet found the right alb for you, you can still reach out to us and we will be able to offer you our creations available in the short term.
What fabric can the gown be made of?
Offering high-quality fabric is as important to us as paying attention to the detail of the embroidery. That’s why our albs are made from two types of fabric: wool/terital blend and linen/polyester mix, both soft to the touch and lightweight. Both fabrics contain polyester, which makes the alb easier to care for, both in washing and ironing, making it a very practical garment. However, as the polyester content is always just a percentage, neither fabric causes sweating or itching, as can happen with garments made from 100% polyester.
Are other types of customisation of the alb possible to order?
Yes. You can request us to embroider your initials together with the date of your order under the nameplate. If it is a gift, we can also include the name of the person who gave you this precious gift.
How can I order the ordination alb?
Arte Ricami supplies specialized shops and ateliers for liturgical vestments throughout Italy and Europe. If you let us know your location, we can point you to the nearest retailer. In case there are no retailers near you offering our products, we can assist you with images and explanations via email or Whatsapp and complete your customized order remotely. Lastly, if you’d like to visit us, you can experience firsthand the quality of our fabrics and the uniqueness of our embroidery.
We wish you a joyful ordination day and hope you begin your work in the vineyard of the Lord with happiness.
Arte Ricami
info@artericamiliturgico.com
www.artericamiliturgico.com
+39 0187 68251
