What is the primary characteristic of embroidery?

The primary characteristic of embroidery is that it involves stitching a design onto a premade fabric using various types of thread, yarn, or other materials. This process creates decorative patterns or images, effectively enhancing the appearance of the base fabric. In doing so, embroidery adds texture and complexity to textiles, making it a popular method in many cultures for embellishing clothing, household items, and artwork.

The other options presented, while related to various textile arts, do not accurately define embroidery. The use of wax for dyeing fabric describes a different technique known as batik. Converting yarn into fabric refers to knitting or weaving, which are distinct processes focused on fabric creation rather than embellishment. The forming of a relief design on metal pertains to metalworking techniques like embossing or engraving, which is unrelated to the textile medium. Each of these reflects separate art forms that do not encapsulate the essence of embroidery.